San Francisco, CA – November 6, 2025 – In a swift move to bolster their defensive line ahead of a crucial stretch in the NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers have officially signed defensive lineman Andrew Farmer II to their practice squad. To accommodate the addition, the team parted ways with linebacker Stone Blanton, signaling a strategic shift in their depth chart as they chase postseason glory.
The 49ers’ front office wasted no time pulling the trigger on this transaction, announced late Wednesday afternoon. Farmer II, a towering 6-4, 250-pound force from Jacksonville, Florida, brings a blend of raw power and collegiate pedigree to a defensive unit that’s already one of the league’s most formidable. At 25 years old, Farmer enters his third professional season after stints with the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos.
Farmer’s NFL journey began as an undrafted free agent with the Chargers on May 12, 2023, where he quickly showed flashes of potential. Over three seasons split between Los Angeles (2023-24) and Denver (2024-25), the athletic defender has suited up for eight games, notching three tackles while learning the ropes of professional football. His most recent chapter with the Broncos ended on a high note with a Reserve/Future contract signed on January 13, 2025, though he was released by the team on August 25 amid final roster cuts. Now, with the 49ers, Farmer has a golden opportunity to crack an active roster stacked with stars like Nick Bosa and Javon Hargrave.
What makes Farmer II such an intriguing pickup? Look no further than his explosive college tape at Lane College, a Division II powerhouse. Over two seasons (2021-22), he terrorized quarterbacks and ball carriers alike, appearing in 18 games and racking up a staggering 114 tackles—including 44 tackles for loss and a blistering 17.5 sacks. Add in five passes defensed and two forced fumbles, and it’s clear why San Francisco sees untapped upside in the Florida native. In a league where depth along the trenches can make or break a Super Bowl run, Farmer’s pass-rush instincts could provide the 49ers with a developmental spark.
On the flip side, the release of linebacker Stone Blanton underscores the ruthlessness of roster management in the NFL. The 6-1, 227-pound Blanton had only recently joined the 49ers’ practice squad on October 22, 2025, but his tenure was short-lived. While Blanton’s departure creates immediate space, it also highlights the team’s confidence in their linebacker corps, led by Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw, as they navigate injuries and rotations. Blanton, a promising talent in his own right, will undoubtedly draw interest from other squads looking to shore up their special teams or depth.
This transaction comes at a pivotal moment for the 49ers, who sit atop the NFC West with a 7-2 record and eyes firmly on a deep playoff push. Head coach Kyle Shanahan praised the move in a brief statement: “Andrew’s got that motor and size we love up front. He’s hungry, and we’re giving him every chance to compete.” With upcoming matchups against divisional rivals, including a revenge game against the Rams, expect Farmer to get reps in practice immediately, potentially earning a call-up if the stars align.
Fans in the Bay Area are buzzing—could this be the hidden gem that tips the scales in San Francisco’s favor? As the 49ers continue to tweak their roster for maximum impact, one thing’s certain: they’re not messing around. Stay tuned to Niners Nation for updates on Farmer’s integration and the ripple effects of Blanton’s exit.