The San Francisco 49ers are scrambling to bolster their defensive line as a rash of injuries has depleted their edge rusher depth ahead of a joint practice and preseason matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. According to KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson, the team is set to sign veteran edge rushers Demone Harris and William Bradley-King following workouts on Wednesday, with the deals expected to be finalized on Thursday. The moves come as the 49ers grapple with a mounting injury crisis that has left their defensive front vulnerable.
A Defensive Line in Disarray
The 49ers’ defensive end group has been hit hard by injuries, prompting urgent action from the front office. On Wednesday, the team placed recently-signed defensive end Bradlee Anae on injured reserve, further thinning an already strained position group. Other key edge rushers, including Robert Beal Jr. (groin), Sam Okuayinonu (groin), and Mykel Williams (knee), are also sidelined as they rehab their respective injuries. Additionally, Yetur Gross-Matos remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, still recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out of action.
#49ers sign former #Falcons #Texans #Buccaneers #Chiefs defensive end Demone Harris and former #Commanders #Patriots #Dolphins linebacker William Bradley-King @BUFootball after successful workouts, per #NFL sources @KPRC2
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 13, 2025
With their depth chart decimated, the 49ers are turning to Harris and Bradley-King to provide immediate relief and stabilize the unit as they prepare for Saturday’s preseason clash against the Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.
Who Are Demone Harris and William Bradley-King?
Demone Harris: The Journeyman Veteran
Demone Harris, an undrafted free agent out of the University at Buffalo, began his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2018. Since then, he has bounced around the league, appearing in games for the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans. Harris briefly retired in August 2023 but made a comeback, signing with the Atlanta Falcons later that year. Over his 23 career games, he has accumulated 22 tackles (three for loss), four quarterback hits, and two passes defensed. His experience and versatility make him a valuable addition to a 49ers defense desperate for healthy bodies.
William Bradley-King: The Late-Round Flier
William Bradley-King, a seventh-round pick by the Washington Commanders in 2021, has had a quieter NFL journey. After spending time with the New England Patriots in 2023 and the Miami Dolphins in 2024, he has played in just four career games, recording seven tackles and 0.5 sacks. While his on-field production has been limited, Bradley-King’s athleticism and potential could earn him a meaningful role in San Francisco’s preseason rotation.
Why the Panic Move?
The 49ers’ decision to sign Harris and Bradley-King reflects the dire state of their defensive end group. With multiple players sidelined, the team cannot afford to enter their joint practice and preseason game against the Raiders without reinforcements. These signings are not just about filling roster spots—they’re about ensuring the 49ers can field a competitive front during critical preparation periods. Both Harris and Bradley-King will have immediate opportunities to prove their worth, starting with Saturday’s game, where their performance could determine their place on the roster as the regular season approaches.
What’s Next for the 49ers?
The 49ers’ defensive line woes highlight the importance of depth in the NFL, especially at a position as physically demanding as edge rusher. While Harris and Bradley-King bring experience and potential, they are not long-term solutions to the team’s injury problems. The 49ers will need to closely monitor the recovery timelines of Beal, Okuayinonu, Williams, and Gross-Matos to determine whether additional moves are necessary before the regular season kicks off.
For now, the focus is on Saturday’s matchup against the Raiders. Harris and Bradley-King will likely see significant snaps, giving them a chance to showcase their skills and potentially earn a longer stay with the team. For a 49ers squad aiming to compete for a Super Bowl, these emergency signings are a stark reminder of how quickly injuries can reshape a roster—and how critical adaptability is in the face of adversity.