The 49ers need defensive help, and veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack could be the perfect fit. Would San Francisco make a move for the nine-time Pro Bowler?
Could Khalil Mack Be the Missing Piece for the 49ers?
The San Francisco 49ers have a lot of decisions to make this offseason. After a disappointing 6-11 season, they’ll need to make roster changes to bounce back in 2025.
With limited salary cap space—especially if they extend QB Brock Purdy—the 49ers won’t have room for big spending. But that doesn’t mean they can’t find smart additions to strengthen their team.
One key area of need? A pass rusher to pair with Nick Bosa.
Would Khalil Mack Be a Good Fit?
On Monday, FanSided’s Scott Conrad suggested that San Francisco should sign nine-time Pro Bowler Khalil Mack, who’s currently a free agent after playing with the Chargers.
“Signing Mack gives (the 49ers) another veteran presence… and the allure of him chasing his first NFL championship ring may provide leverage for the Niners to sign him for less than the expected $20 million-per-year market value,” Conrad wrote.
He even suggested a two-year deal worth $10 million per season with incentives—an affordable price for a future Hall of Famer.
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Can Mack Still Deliver?
Mack is turning 34 this month, but he still has something left in the tank.
- 2024 season stats: 6 sacks, 15 QB hits, 2 forced fumbles
- Made another Pro Bowl despite lower sack numbers
- Still a disruptive force who could benefit from playing alongside Bosa
His six sacks in 16 games were his lowest since his rookie year, but playing for a defense like San Francisco’s could help him return to double-digit sacks.
Would the 49ers Actually Make the Move?
If the 49ers want to save cap space and gain draft picks, they could trade Leonard Floyd and sign Mack instead. Mack’s leadership and experience would be valuable for the team, and if the deal is right, San Francisco could get a big return on a small investment.
The question is—will Mack take a discount to chase a Super Bowl ring? If so, the 49ers should seriously consider making the move.
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