The San Francisco 49ers have not formally announced their UDFA classes, but based on reports of who they have signed, the class is looking strong. Todd McShay’s top ten UDFA list had the 49ers signing three of the top four. Now, NFL.com analyst Chad Reuter ranked the entire reported haul as second in the NFL.
The New England Patriots ranked No. 1, and it is actually not surprising both teams are up top. While there are not a ton of starting opportunities in New England, they’re the best team in the league, and they do a good job developing talent. On the other end, the 49ers are among the worst teams in the league, and their roster ovehaul means UDFAs have a strong chance of claiming a spot on the 53-man roster.
Here’s what Reuter had to say about the 49ers haul.
Agents across the league know the 49ers are turning over their roster. They're happy to let their guys go to San Francisco because they have a decent shot at making the team. Receivers KD Cannon (Baylor), Victor Bolden (Oregon State), and Kendrick Bourne (Eastern Washington) all have talent. Safety Lorenzo Jerome (St. Francis, Pa.) proved himself a playmaker during his career and in the East-West Shrine Game; his slow 40 time cost him a draft slot, but I still expect him to make an impact. Guard J.P. Flynn (Montana State), offensive lineman Erik Magnuson (Michigan), and tight end Cole Hikutini (Louisville) were all worthy of being picked.
Here is a full rundown of the 49ers reported UDFA signings.
QB: Nick Mullens
RB: Matt Breida
WR: Victor Bolden, K.D. Cannon, Kendrick Bourne
TE Cole Hikutini
OL: Erik Magnuson, Darrell Williams, JP Flynn, Bret Treadway
DE: Noble Nwachukwu
LB: Donavin Newsom, Jimmie Gilbert
DB: Jihaad Pretlow
S: Lorenzo Jerome, Malik Golden