Should the 49ers try to sign this veteran linebacker again?
The linebacker position is argubaly the most questionable on the San Francisco 49ers.
Outside of Fred Warner, the 49ers have no clear player who can duo with him or even trot out in the base defense. Dee Winters showed flashes last year, but still has a long way to go.
The 49ers drafted Nick Martin, who has amazing speed, but also needs a lot of work. Linebacker is not a comfortable position for the 49ers at all.
That is why Pro Football Network has recommended the 49ers to sign veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks.
Eric Kendricks – A Battle-Tested Defensive “Monster”
Eric Kendricks, formerly of the Dallas Cowboys, once left the 49ers disappointed when he opted against joining them at the last minute last year, instead signing with Dallas. Now, with Kendricks back on the free-agent market, the 49ers have a second chance to secure one of the NFL’s most experienced and talented linebackers. With a storied career that includes an All-Pro selection and nine consecutive seasons with at least 100 tackles, Kendricks is seen as the perfect fit to pair with Fred Warner – currently the NFL’s premier linebacker.
Kendricks excels not only in stopping the run but also as a specialist in pass coverage. With his speed, instincts, and vast experience, he could significantly strengthen a 49ers linebacker corps that has lacked depth since Greenlaw’s departure. “Fred Warner is one of the best defensive players in the NFL, but he needs support, especially after Greenlaw’s exit,” Pro Football Network noted.
Another Option: Kyzir White
In addition to Kendricks, Bleacher Report has also suggested another name for the 49ers: Kyzir White, widely regarded as the top free-agent linebacker available. White, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals, is known for his explosive speed and field coverage. While he may not have the same decorated resume as Kendricks, White is seen as a younger, dynamic option that aligns with the aggressive defensive style of the 49ers under head coach Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
The State of the 49ers’ Linebacker Corps
Dre Greenlaw’s departure has left a significant gap in the 49ers’ defense. While the team drafted rookie Nick Martin in the 2025 NFL Draft and still has promising linebacker Dee Winters, both players lack the experience to take on a leading role immediately. Martin, despite impressing with a 4.53-second 40-yard dash and strong coverage skills, needs time to develop. Meanwhile, Winters has shown progress but struggles against the run.
Adding a star like Kendricks or White would provide instant impact and bring stability and experience to the 49ers’ young linebacker group. The team also recently signed former New York Jets linebacker Chazz Surratt to add depth, but Surratt is unlikely to take on a primary role.
Why the 49ers Need to Act Now
With the third-most effective cap space in the NFL, the 49ers have the financial flexibility to sign a star like Kendricks or White. After a disappointing 2024 season with a 6-11 record and a last-place finish in the NFC West, the team desperately needs a spark to return to contention. A favorable 2025 schedule also provides an opportunity for the 49ers to capitalize on an upgraded roster and compete for the division crown.
Moreover, with Fred Warner – who recently signed a new deal to become the NFL’s highest-paid linebacker – leading the defense and the return of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, the 49ers are building a formidable unit. Signing a “monster” like Kendricks or White would be a strategic move to propel the team back to championship contention.
Conclusion
The San Francisco 49ers are poised to make a game-changing addition to their defense by signing a star like Eric Kendricks or Kyzir White. With their talent, experience, and fit within the team’s scheme, either player could become the new “monster” in the 49ers’ defense, teaming up with Fred Warner to form an impenetrable wall. 49ers fans are undoubtedly eager for an official announcement from the team!