The San Francisco 49ers have one of the most talented rosters in the league. The roster is loaded with proven veterans like Christian McCaffrey, Mike Evans, and Nick Bosa, among many others.
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As a result, it’s not the easiest roster for rookies to break onto. The 49ers signed many fewer undrafted free agents than other teams did, and the ones that they did sign have a tough path.
With that being said, three specific UDFAs are in the best spot to stick around. Let’s identify those three players today and talk about why they could make the team.
DL Bryson Eason
Bryson Eason easily could have been drafted this year. The Tennessee product was a reliable starter for the Volunteers for several seasons, and he dominated against quality competition.
Eason was credited with 13 pressures during his final collegiate season, and he graded out well as a pass rusher and run defender. The 49ers don’t have the most depth at defensive tackle, so Eason could easily snatch a spot. Eason has even gotten praise from Raheem Morris, so he’s making his presence felt.
The 49ers also cut Kevin Givens recently, opening up a spot on the line.
DB Jalen Stroman
Next, we’ll stay on defense and go to Jalen Stroman. Stroman is another defender who could have been drafted, but ended up falling out and landing in a perfect spot.
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The 49ers have Ji’Ayir Brown locked in at one safety spot, but the other safety spot is more questionable. As a result, there’s reason to believe Stroman can, at the very least, earn a depth spot. Stroman was never much of a ballhawk in college, but he’s a reliable tackle with solid speed and instincts.
The defensive back needs to stack good days and have a big preseason game or two, and he’ll be firmly on the bubble.
P Jack Bouwmeester
Jack Bouwmeester is locked in a tight battle for the punting job with Corliss Waitman. Waitman is a veteran with starting experience, but he was only given a cheap, one-year deal this offseason.
Bouwmeester was one of the most productive punters in college football in 2025. The Texas product was top 30 in the country in yards per punt and total punt yards. Buowmeester also bombed a 58-yard punt last year and had two 60-yard punts in the 2024 season. Distance shouldn’t be an issue for the rookie, but he’ll need to be more consistent and accurate to beat out the veteran.
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This story was originally published August 9, 2026 at 8:48 PM.
