The San Francisco 49ers are solidifying their defensive lineup with a notable addition. Free-agent defensive tackle Jordan Elliott, a seasoned player with 32 starts over the last two seasons with the Cleveland Browns, has agreed to a two-year contract with the 49ers. This development, confirmed by his agent on social media, hints at a significant role for Elliott in the team’s plans.
Elliott’s arrival suggests a potential replacement for Arik Armstead, whose future with the 49ers is uncertain amid contract negotiations. The team offered Armstead a revised contract with substantial adjustments to his salary, but he has opted not to accept these terms, leading to speculation about his impending release.
Should Armstead depart, the 49ers faced a crucial void in their defensive line, especially with the onset of the NFL’s open negotiation period. Prior to Elliott’s signing, the team’s depth at defensive tackle was notably thin beyond Javon Hargrave. Elliott, at 26 years old, is poised to assume a significant role, likely slotting into the interior defensive line as a three-technique player.
While Elliott is expected to feature prominently on base downs, his role may diminish on passing downs. Nonetheless, his track record, which includes 4.5 sacks, 57 tackles, and eight tackles for loss in the past two seasons, underscores his value to the team.
With limited experience among other defensive tackles on the roster, such as Kalia Davis and T.Y. McGill, the 49ers may consider re-signing Kevin Givens, who has seen action in both regular-season and playoff games.
In addition to Elliott, the 49ers have bolstered their defensive front with the acquisitions of free-agent defensive ends Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos, complementing star player Nick Bosa. These moves enhance the team’s defensive prowess, providing both depth and talent along the line.
The addition of Elliott signifies a step forward for the 49ers in solidifying their defensive lineup. With further opportunities to strengthen through free agency and the upcoming draft, the team appears well-positioned to field a formidable starting defensive line in the upcoming season.
