49ers Free Agent Target Signs With the Steelers: What Now?
A Missed Opportunity or a Wise Decision?
The San Francisco 49ers will need to reassess their options at the safety position after free agent target Juan Thornhill signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Thornhill, formerly with the Cleveland Browns, visited the 49ers last week, but no deal materialized. This raises an important question: Did the 49ers pass on him, or did Thornhill turn them down due to financial or contractual disagreements?
Regardless of the reasoning, the 49ers now find themselves in a familiar position—searching for a reliable safety to bolster their defense.
The 49ers’ Safety Dilemma
San Francisco’s safety unit is in dire need of reinforcements. While Malik Mustapha has shown promise, he is still developing, and Ji’Ayir Brown was a significant liability last season. Banking on Brown to have a breakout year is a risky gamble, which makes adding a veteran presence crucial for the team’s defensive stability.
Thornhill could have been that presence, but his calf injury in 2024, which landed him on Injured Reserve, might have made the 49ers hesitant. Given their recent injury woes with key players, it is understandable why they might have opted against signing him.
Exploring Alternative Safety Options
With Thornhill off the board, the 49ers must pivot to other options. Fortunately, there are still viable safeties available in free agency. One such option is Julian Blackmon, a player the 49ers showed interest in last offseason. Blackmon has been solid in coverage and could fit well in Robert Saleh’s defensive system.
Another intriguing name is Justin Simmons. The 49ers were reportedly interested in him last year but never made an official move. Simmons, a proven playmaker with the Denver Broncos, would instantly upgrade the 49ers’ secondary and bring leadership to a defense in transition.
A Pressing Need Across the Defense
While safety is a priority, the reality is that the 49ers need reinforcements at multiple positions on defense. Outside of cornerback, nearly every defensive spot could use an upgrade or added depth. The team’s front office has been strategic with their spending this offseason, opting not to overspend on free agents. However, addressing the safety position remains a necessity.
Jason Pinnock, a recent signing, is primarily a special teams player and not a viable starting option at safety. The 49ers cannot afford to go into the season without a dependable player next to Mustapha.
Final Thoughts
Losing out on Thornhill isn’t a devastating blow, but it does highlight the 49ers’ need to act quickly in securing a safety. With training camp approaching, the team must ensure they have the right personnel in place to avoid weaknesses in the secondary. Whether they revisit past interests like Blackmon or Simmons, or look elsewhere, one thing is clear—the 49ers can’t afford to go into the 2025 season with their current safety situation.
