This is kind of out of nowhere. The Oakland Raiders are set to sign free agent pass rusher Bruce Irvin when the signing period starts at 1 p.m. PT on Wednesday. Ian Rapoport reported the news, saying it was "[o]ut of nowhere."
The 49ers have a need for pass rush help, but were never connected to the Seahawks free agent. Irvin had said he would consider returning to Seattle for less if the numbers were close, but this would indicate that is not the case. Like the 49ers, the Raiders have a ton of cap space. They have reportedly agreed in principle to a mammoth deal with offensive guard Kelechi Osemele, and now they re adding Irvin to the mix.
The 49ers very well could come out swinging tomorrow and add some talent. Sean Smith is the most notable name to which they have been connected. Of course, it is also possible they once again wait and see how the market develops. We have seen Baalke do this year-in and year-out. The 49ers signed Torrey Smith quickly last year, but for the most part, this is a team that waits to see what happens after that first crush of signings.
And of course, that is frustrating for a team with significant holes and a lot of cap space. I do hope the 49ers can fill the holes long-term with the draft, but it's hard to see the team not sign some impressive talent. I'm willing to wait and see what happens over the next few days, but I get the frustration. Especially when it looks like the Raiders are doing some serious damage in free agency.