ESPN analyst Ben Solak offered a strong endorsement of the San Francisco 49ers’ free agency moves this offseason. In his ranking of the NFL’s most improved rosters, the 49ers checked in at No. 2, trailing only the Pittsburgh Steelers.
When it came time for Solak to identify anything he didn’t love about the team’s moves thus far, he wrote, “Nothing.”
At the top of his list of favorite moves was the signing of veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, formerly of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Solak praised the deal for its low risk and team-friendly structure.
“This was one of the most team-friendly signings in this free agency period,” Solak wrote. “With only $14 million guaranteed at signing and most of his 2027 and 2028 money tied into option bonuses, the 49ers are committed to Evans for only one season, which would be important should he look completely unplayable in his age-33 season.”
Solak doesn’t see that happening, though. He expects Evans to be a strong fit in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
“Far more likely, Evans should fill a valuable role of vertical specialist, third-down stick mover and red zone matchup nightmare,” Solak added.
“Remember the short-yardage issues that the Niners endured against the Seahawks’ stifling run defense? Evans is the answer to that. If he’s even 75% of his prime self, the 49ers got an enormous deal on a ring-chasing veteran leader.”
Solak also highlighted several other key additions, including the trade for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa from the Dallas Cowboys.
“A third-round pick for a rising 28-year-old with three years of team control at a premium position of massive need? Home run!” Solak wrote. “And the fliers on [CB Nate] Hobbs and [LB Dre] Greenlaw should be exactly the shot in the arm this defense needs. At worst, they will play rotational roles; at best, they could return to starting form.”
Solak did note some lingering concern at wide receiver, even after Evans’ arrival, given the offseason turnover at the position. However, the addition of Christian Kirk helped ease those doubts.
“If the 49ers can just keep Trent Williams in the building for one more year and get full recoveries from Mykel Williams (knee) and Nick Bosa (knee), I’ll be a full believer,” Solak concluded.