The San Francisco 49ers took a measured, largely internal approach to the 2026 NFL free agency period, and according to data compiled by RotoWire, the results reflect a class built more on stability than splash.
Using its Free Agency Overpay Index — an advanced metric designed to compare player value against contract cost — RotoWire paints a picture of a 49ers front office that stayed disciplined, even if it meant paying slight premiums to keep key contributors.
The most notable outside addition for San Francisco was veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, who signed for $14.1 million annually.
Encouragingly for San Francisco, RotoWire’s model views that deal as essentially market value, grading it at just a $0.1 million surplus. For a proven, high-impact pass catcher, that kind of contract efficiency could prove to be one of the quiet wins of the 49ers’ offseason.
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 28: Dre Greenlaw #57 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a stop during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Championship Game at Levi’s Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
More on the 49ers’ offseason additions
Much of the 49ers’ strategy, however, centered on retaining familiar faces. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw returned at $7.5 million per year, though the model flags that deal as a $1.5 million overpay.
Offensive tackle Vederian Lowe was also brought back at $4.6 million annually, with an even steeper $1.6 million overpay designation. While neither contract is egregious, they suggest the 49ers were willing to spend slightly above market to maintain continuity in key areas.
Special teams saw a similar trend, as kicker Eddy Piñeiro was retained on a $4.25 million AAV deal, graded as a $0.8 million overpay. Meanwhile, depth pieces like Sam Okuayinonu and Jake Tonges were brought back on near-minimum contracts that still registered as modest premiums in the model.
Ultimately, San Francisco didn’t chase headlines in free agency — they prioritized familiarity, scheme fit, and roster cohesion.
While RotoWire’s data suggests San Francisco paid slightly above-market in several cases, the overall approach reflects a team confident in its core, which already includes Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Fred Warner, and more.
For a hopeful contender like the 49ers, continuity can often be just as valuable as bargain hunting, even if it comes at a small cost.
More 49ers & NFL content from Sactown Sports
Upcoming NFL Offseason Schedule
Monday, March 9 – Wednesday, March 11 – Free agent negotiation period
Wednesday, March 11 – 2026 League Year begins & free agency opens
Sunday, March 29 – Wednesday, April 1 – NFL Annual League Meeting
Thursday, April 23 – Saturday, April 25 – 2026 NFL Draft
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