San Francisco 49ers face a major decision this offseason with several key players set to hit free agency. As the team looks ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the roster will undergo some changes, especially with the potential for Brock Purdy to secure a hefty contract extension.
One prominent player set to enter the market is All-Pro safety Talanoa Hufanga. With a cap hit of just over $4.9 million this season, Hufanga is poised for a significant pay increase in free agency. Although he played only seven games in 2024, Hufanga’s reputation as one of the league’s top safeties remains intact. He earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2022, making him a prime target for teams looking to strengthen their secondary.
In a recent report, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox ranked Hufanga as the eighth-best free agent to watch this offseason, highlighting his impressive skill set and production. “Based on past production, Hufanga should be considered one of the top defensive backs headed into free agency,” Knox stated. “Fast, physical, and with a keen eye for diagnosing plays, he can add a disruptive presence to any secondary.”
Knox further detailed Hufanga’s outstanding 2022 season, where he recorded two forced fumbles, four interceptions, and five tackles for loss, earning first-team All-Pro honors. “He’ll turn only 26 next month,” Knox added, making Hufanga an even more appealing target for teams seeking a young, elite safety.
One team that could make a serious play for Hufanga is the Detroit Lions. With $69.8 million in projected cap space for 2025, the Lions are in a strong position to pursue top-tier talent. Hufanga would be an ideal fit for Detroit’s defense, which is in need of more playmakers in the secondary. Knox pointed out that the Lions took a chance on Jamal Adams during the season, though they ultimately released him from their practice squad.
Detroit is expected to be a major player in the free agent market, and with their available cap space, the Lions are likely to be linked to many of the top names this offseason.
The 49ers, however, face the challenge of maintaining their championship-caliber roster while dealing with the financial constraints of a potential Purdy extension. It will be interesting to see if they can retain a key talent like Hufanga or if he will be one of the star players to make a move elsewhere.
