The market for defensive players is adjusting quickly as we are now a little over 24 hours away from the opening of the free agency signing period. Free agent defensive end Malik Jackson is set to sign a six-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to Broncos beat writer Mike Klis. Additionally, Adam Schefter is reporting the Kansas City Chiefs will re-sign Tamba Hali to a three-year deal.
The Jackson signing means arguably the best defensive player on the market is going to be locked up as soon as free agency starts on Wednesday. Adam Schefter is reporting Jackson's deal could net $15 million per year! I realize the 49ers need help on the defensive line, but that's some crazy money.
Quinton Dial will start at one spot, and I imagine the team is hoping Arik Armstead can emerge as a starter on the other end. This year's draft is loaded with defensive line talent, so it would not be surprising to see the 49ers invest in the line through that. It does leave us wondering what exactly the 49ers plan on doing with their ridiculous amount of cap space. We haven't heard much beyond the Sean Smith, J.R. Sweezy, and De'Anthony Thomas rumors, but there could be plenty else set to happen when the market officially opens Wednesday afternoon. We'll see what it brings.