I loved: The Evans deal. This was one of the most team-friendly signings in this free agency period. With only $14 million guaranteed at signing and most of his 2027 and 2028 money tied into option bonuses, the 49ers are committed to Evans for only one season, which would be important should he look completely unplayable in his age-33 season. Far more likely, Evans should fill a valuable role of vertical specialist, third-down stick mover and red zone matchup nightmare.
Remember the short-yardage issues that the Niners endured against the Seahawks’ stifling run defense? Evans is the answer to that. If he’s even 75% of his prime self, the 49ers got an enormous deal on a ring-chasing veteran leader.
I didn’t love: Nothing. The Odighizuwa trade was an enormous boon. A third-round pick for a rising 28-year-old with three years of team control at a premium position of massive need? Home run! And the fliers on Hobbs and Greenlaw should be exactly the shot in the arm this defense needs. At worst, they will play rotational roles; at best, they could return to starting form.
I had WR depth questions, too, but in comes Kirk. If the 49ers can just keep Trent Williams in the building for one more year and get full recoveries from Mykel Williams (knee) and Nick Bosa (knee), I’ll be a full believer.