49ers Sign Former First-Round Cornerback

The San Francisco 49ers have bolstered their secondary by signing former first-round cornerback Eli Apple. The 31-year-old spent the majority of the 2025 season on the 49ers' practice squad, recording just one tackle in two games. Despite being waived by the team on August 2, the 49ers quickly reinstated Apple, seemingly due to the need for added depth in their defense.

Apple began his professional career as the 10th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Despite being a first-round selection, he never fully met the high expectations associated with such a pick. His performance fluctuated throughout his career, with periods of success and times of criticism. After being traded to the New Orleans Saints in 2018, Apple recorded impressive numbers over his last two seasons with the team.

However, injuries forced his release and he eventually signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, and Los Angeles Chargers before joining the 49ers last season. Apple has a career total of 384 tackles, a half-sack, three forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, 61 passes defensed and six interceptions.