The San Francisco 49ers head into free agency with a ton of cap space, and big changes among their most important decision-makers. Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch will have plenty of support, but decision-making will likely fall primarily on their shoulders.
Shanahan’s involvement in the decision-making process will be particularly interesting. Lynch does not have personnel experience other than his observations and interactions on television. Shanahan has had major roles for four different teams (Texans, Washington, Browns, Falcons). In Atlanta, he was reportedly the impetus for signing Taylor Gabriel last year after the Browns released him. We have since heard that the 49ers might target Falcons backup QB Matt Schaub, and Falcons tight end Jacob Tamme could have interest in the 49ers if he does not re-sign.
With that in mind, it is time to start considering players with whom Shanahan has worked in the past. It is no surprise the coaching staff was shaped based on previous relationships. It will now be worth tracking how much previous relationships will shape some of the 49ers free agency additions.
Here is a list of the Falcons scheduled free agents. Any other players that might end up on the radar?
DL Jonathan Babineaux
OG Chris Chester
OL Tom Compton
FB Patrick DiMarco
DE Dwight Freeney
S Dashon Goldson
S Kemal Ishmael
LB LaRoy Reynolds
WR Aldrick Robinson
QB Matt Schaub
TE Jacob Tamme
TE Levine Toilolo
DL Courtney Upshaw
LB Sean Weatherspoon
WR Eric Weems
LB Philip Wheeler
LB Paul Worrilow