49ers could sign 62-game Colts starter after latest injury revelation

The San Francisco 49ers could be in the market for a safety after a recent report suggested that Malik Mustapha could miss significant time to start the season.

ESPN's Nick Wagoner recently revealed that he suffered an injury in the team's season finale and could miss the start of the season.

"According to a source, Mustapha has been at the team facility rehabbing the knee and is 'doing really well,'" wrote Wagoner. "There is no definitive timeline on Mustapha's return but, given how late in the year the injury occurred, it's unlikely he will be ready at the start of the season with a midseason return more likely, sources said. Mustapha did, however, recover quickly from his previous ACL injury and there was no meniscus or cartilage damage in Arizona."

The 49ers drafted Marques Sigle from Kansas State on Day 3 of the draft. However, after losing Talanoa Hufanga and Charvarius Ward in free agency, they could want some veteran leadership. Sports Illustrated's Jose Luis Sanchez III named Julian Blackmon as a potential target for the team.

"Another safety the 49ers had interest in last offseason is Julian Blackmon," wrote Sanchez. "Unlike with Simmons, the 49ers actually brought Blackmon on a visit. They showcased their interest rather than leaked it. Blackmon would be a great signing because of his age. He's only 26 years old right now, so it fits under the umbrella of getting younger for the 49ers. He could end up being a duo with Mustapha for the foreseeable future."

Follow The Sporting News On WhatsApp

Blackmon has spent the last five seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. He has started 62 games and has 10 interceptions and 21 passes defended. He could be a veteran presence for the 49ers until Mustapha recovers and also mentor Sigle.

More NFL: Brock Purdy's 49ers contract extension timeline gets massive update