Hot Takes, Predictions for 49ers' Most Impactful Free Agent Signings

The San Francisco 49ers focused on improving their defensive depth in free agency.

Kyle Shanahan's team did not need to make any massive splashes, but it had to add more second-tier impact players to replace the ones that departed in the offseason.

Some of those depth players will play more important roles throughout the season, starting with linebacker De'Vondre Campbell.

Campbell has the potential to get off to one of the better starts on the defense with Dre Greenlaw working back to 100 percent after his torn Achilles.

The defensive line also carries a lot of potential for improvement around Nick Bosa. Leonard Floyd and Maliek Collins could turn out to be nice additions by the reigning NFC champion.

De'Vondre Campbell Makes Huge Impact in September

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CHICAGO, IL - SEPTEMBER 10: Linebacker De'Vondre Campbell #59 of the Green Bay Packers tackles DJ Moore #2 of the Chicago Bears during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on September 10, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)

De'Vondre Campbell has the potential to have the biggest opening month on the entire San Francisco defense.

The former Green Bay Packers linebacker can help the 49ers succeed in the middle of defense while Greenlaw works back to 100 percent.

Campbell is only a few years removed from a 146-tackle campaign with the Packers. He has four seasons with at least 90 tackles since 2019.

However, Campbell dealt with some injury issues of his own over the last two years. He only played in 11 games last season for the Packers.

He must stay healthy to make impact, but if he does, Campbell could revert back to his 2021 form and make a massive difference right away.

Once Greenlaw returns to full strength, the 49ers could have three strong linebackers in place and be an even tougher defense to play against.

Leonard Floyd Balances Out Pass Rush

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INGLEWOOD, CA - DECEMBER 23: Leonard Floyd #56 of the Buffalo Bills lines up to run around the edge during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on December 23, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images)

Leonard Floyd has been one of the most effective pass-rushers in the NFL over the last four years.

Floyd recorded at least nine sacks in each of his last four seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills.

The 49ers were more than familiar with Floyd's talent from his time in the NFC West and decided to bring him in to start opposite Nick Bosa.

Floyd's arrival could be a welcome sight for Bosa, who may not have to deal with constant double teams if the newest 49ers pass rusher matches his form from the past few years.

A year ago, the 49ers relied on a rotating cast opposite Bosa, but now Floyd can make the job his own and allow the NFC West side to look even more ferocious on defense.

Maliek Collins Becomes Major Asset In Stopping The Run

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HOUSTON, TX - NOVEMBER 05: Maliek Collins #96 of the Houston Texans runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at NRG Stadium on November 5, 2023 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Maliek Collins was brought in to punish opposing rushing attacks.

The 29-year-old defensive tackle had 23 stuffs over the last three seasons with the Houston Texans.

He came into his own during his time in the AFC South and now he has the potential to elevate his game further with two elite pass-rushers around him.

Collins can continue to be the worst nightmare of opposing running backs, and if that is the case, the 49ers defense could look much tougher than it did a year ago.

If everything goes right with Collins, Floyd and Campbell, the 49ers could make a stronger case to be the favorite in the NFC than last season.