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By Michael Gallagher
Sports Content Coordinator
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The San Francisco 49ers have their work cut out in trying to address a number of defensive issues heading into the offseason.
The team lost defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, who was announced as the new head coach of the Tennessee Titans earlier this week, and there’s several holes in the starting lineup that need to be filled.
San Francisco’s entire defensive line needs to be addressed, and the team has to find some more linebacker depth. But arguably the most important thing on general manager John Lynch’s to-do list is finding a capable pass-rusher to pair opposite Nick Bosa next season.
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While plenty of solid pass-rush talent will be available in free agency — Trey Hendrickson, Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, A.J. Epenesa, Haason Reddick — Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard believes the 49ers are better suited exploring the trade market instead.
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“How about doing everything possible this offseason to land potentially very available Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby?” Kawakami asked. “And not stopping there. Actually, accelerating from there.
“After cleaning out a big chunk of their depth chart and payroll last March, the 49ers don’t have to hesitate or guard their bank account this offseason. After falling a few star players short against the Seahawks in two lopsided games in the last few weeks, the 49ers have the target right in front of them for 2026.”
The 49ers were the worst team in the NFL at sacking the quarterback this season, totaling a league-worst 20 sacks. They were one of just two teams, along with the New York Jets, to not reach the 30-sack plateau as a team.
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Clelin Ferrell and Bryce Huff tied for the team lead in sacks (four), and Sam Okuayinonu (three) and Bosa (two), who played in just three games before suffering a season-ending ACL injury, were the only other players to record multiple sacks on the team.
Adding an elite edge-rusher of Crosby’s caliber — he logged 53 pressures, 31 hurries, 12 QB hits, 10 sacks, and 28 tackles for loss this season — would not only give the 49ers some insurance in case Bosa isn’t quite himself or suffers another injury but also make life easier for whomever is Saleh’s successor as DC.
Kawakami suggested an all-in move for Crosby and/or Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson could be what gets San Francisco back to a Super Bowl.
“Justin Jefferson or Maxx Crosby to get the 49ers over the finish line,” Kawakami continued. “Maybe Jefferson and Crosby. Once you’re this close, finally completing the chase is the only thing that matters.”
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