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The San Francisco 49ers did not select a safety until the fifth round of this year's NFL Draft. However, they could be in the market for a starting safety after it was revealed that Malik Mustapha could miss half the season.
The 49ers drafted Marques Sigle from Kansas State on Day 3 of the draft. However, they may not be comfortable with starting him from Day 1. Mustapha started 12 games for the 49ers last season and even got Defensive Rookie of the Year votes. However, 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 have known his recovery status, but now it feels as if their secondary is even thinner. They lost Talanoa Hufanga and Charvarius Ward this offseason and could use a veteran presence. Sports Illustrated's Jose Luis Sanchez III named Justin Simmons as a free agent target.
"He's not an elite player like he was a few years ago, but Justin Simmons is still a player who can improve a defense. The 49ers had reported interest in him last year," wrote Sanchez. "Maybe it is still there now that they know adding a safety might be needed. They at least know Simmons is willing to wait. He signed right around training camp last year with the (Atlanta) Falcons."
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Simmons is a two-time Pro Bowler and a four-time Second-Team All-Pro. Last season he had two interceptions, seven passes defended and 62 tackles. His numbers were not far off from his Pro Bowl season in 2023. He could be a great addition for the 49ers and would be inexpensive. He has 32 career interceptions and has made 124 career starts.
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