Which Undrafted San Francisco 49ers Have Best Chances to Contribute in 2012?

Phil GJun 7, 2018

The San Francisco 49ers will have few open roster spots, but I suspect that Jim Harbaugh will add an undrafted free agent or two.

While the 49ers seem loaded at just about every position, they lack depth in a few areas.

With the injury to sixth-round draft pick Darius Fleming, expect the 49ers to add depth at OLB. Their lack of depth at OLB last season was well noted, so expect Harbaugh to add some bodies at that position.

In addition, the 49ers defensive backfield is a bit thin, especially at safety. While I expected the 49ers to address this need in the draft, it seems GM Trent Baalke felt comfortable with the current pieces in place. Baalke will likely add another piece or two in that regard.

With free agency thinning, the 49ers will look to their undrafted free-agent signings to make a contribution early, especially on special teams.

With that, here are three undrafted free-agent signings with the potential to make a contribution in 2012.

1. Joe Holland, OLB

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Joe Holland was a solid prospect coming out of Purdue and was a projected late-round selection.

I thought Holland would project as an OLB in a 4-3 scheme, which makes this selection somewhat puzzling.

Holland isn't much of a pass-rusher, but he has room to grow. The Purdue product really shines in pass coverage, and he could definitely contribute in nickel coverages.

The loss of Darius Fleming to injury should also open an opportunity for Holland.

2. Michael Thomas, S

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As I stated before, the safety position lacks depth. The loss of Reggie Smith and Madieu Williams in free agency leaves the Niners with little depth at the position.

GM Trent Baalke drafted Trent Robinson in the sixth round, but the addition of Michael Thomas should help in the special teams department.

Thomas was a very productive safety at Stanford and should have a better grasp on the playbook because of his relationship with Jim Harbaugh.