SamOkuayinonu stepped into a key defensive role for the San Francisco 49ers amid injuries at defensive end, leading the team in snaps at the position while setting career highs in tackles and pressures. He recorded 39 tackles, six TFLs, 31 pressures, seven quarterback hits, three sacks, and one forced fumble across 15 regular-season games, including 12 starts, accounting for 575 defensive snaps. Okuayinonu also posted six tackles in the playoffs.
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The 49ers placed the right-of-first refusal tender on Okuayinonu, worth a non-guaranteed $3.546 million for the 2026 season. He can sign an offer sheet with other teams, and San Francisco will have five dates to match. If the team declines to match the offer sheet, they will not be entitled to draft compensation, unlike in the original round, the second-round, or the first-round tender.
San Francisco 49ers officially announce underrated pass rusher’s return
San Francisco 49ers, Sam Okuayinonu
Jan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Sam Okuayinonu (91) during warmups against the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
According to Adam Schefter, Sam Okuayinonu has officially signed his right-of-first refusal tender, securing him under contract for $3.546 million for the 2026 season. He will compete for a key pass-rushing role this offseason as part of the rotation under Raheem Morris, the new defensive coordinator. Since Okuayinonu is set to earn his fourth accrued season, he will become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
49ers announced they have signed WR Christian Kirk, P Corliss Waitman and re-signed Sam Okuayinonu to a one-year deal. pic.twitter.com/eXV6f9qEcC
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2026
Fans react to the news
san francisco 49ers
Dec 19, 2021; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers fan holds up a flag during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports
49ers getting smart with their signings—depth across the board. Watch how these moves pay off during the season 🔥
— 𝕹𝕻𝕲 (@Oluwashina101) March 18, 2026
Upgrade at punter? Check
Legitimate deep threat for Purdy? Check
Sneaky good defensive depth piece brought back? Check
— KennyK, Bay Area Nationalist🏜🌉 (@The530Bro) March 18, 2026
These are smart roster building moves that improve competition and depth heading into the season
— LebothaSir (@SirLebotha) March 18, 2026
49ers stacking pieces! 🏈👀 Kirk to stretch the field, Waitman to pin ’em deep, and Okuayinonu back for depth this offseason heating up!
— Sharma (@sharma10197) March 18, 2026
Sam okuayinonu re-signing on a one year deal means he earned another look and the front office liked what they saw enough to keep him building
— Ola (@farryword) March 18, 2026