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4 veteran free agents who would immediately help 49ers 2 roster issues

The San Francisco 49ers wanted to get younger and more athletic this offseason, but there are veteran free agents who could help them.

The San Francisco 49ers are entering their Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Rams with two significant roster concerns. The team's struggles in both the trenches and depth chart present opportunities for veteran free agents to step in and bolster their roster.

Two players who could help the 49ers' defensive line are former defensive end Leonard Floyd and defensive lineman Denico Autry. Floyd, who is 34 years old, spent last season with the Atlanta Falcons, where former 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris was the head coach. Although his sack numbers dipped last season, Floyd's experience as a pass rush specialist would be valuable to the 49ers' group, which has faced injuries to defensive ends Sam Okuayinonu, Nick Bosa, and Romello Height.

Additionally, Autry, a 36-year-old veteran, has provided 36 pressures and seven sacks over the past two years. His ability to rotate in as a defensive tackle could be crucial for the 49ers as they navigate injuries to their young players.

On the offensive line, the 49ers face challenges with their left tackle situation, especially with the aging Trent Williams starting at left tackle. Austin Pleasants is out for at least four weeks with a knee injury, and Vederian Lowe, the other backup tackle, has had inconsistent results in his pro career. Offensive tackle Taylor Decker, a 38-year-old veteran, could provide a reliable swing tackle option for the 49ers.

Decker's presence would help prevent the left side of the offensive line from collapsing if Williams misses time during the season. Additionally, veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, who has primarily played right guard, could bolster the 49ers' depth chart at left guard, providing a strong option for the team's offensive line.

Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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