Undrafted free agents making the San Francisco 49ers’ final 53-man roster has become something of a franchise tradition in recent years, with players like Kendrick Bourne and Jordan Mason proving to be useful role players during their time with the time.
Among the 49ers’ current UDFA class, The Athletic’s Matt Barrows identified several candidates who could keep that streak alive in 2026. Barrows pointed to four situations worth monitoring heading into training camp: Punter Jack Bouwmeester, tight end Khalil Dinkins, defensive end Mikail Kamara and either defensive tackles Bryson Eason or James Thompson Jr.
Bouwmeester may have the clearest path. The Australian is competing against one opponent for the punting job: veteran Corliss Waitman. The only obstacle at the moment is logistical: Bouwmeester is still waiting for his work visa to be approved before he can join the team.
Dinkins could carve out a role if George Kittle begins the season on the physically unable to perform list due to his Achilles injury. With Luke Farrell and Jake Tonges holding the top two spots, a third tight end opening could emerge, and Dinkins — a blocking specialist — would need to beat out Brayden Willis for it.
Kamara’s chances hinge on the health of Mykel Williams, who is recovering from an ACL injury. If Williams isn’t ready for Week 1, the 49ers could enter the season thin at the position, which would improve Kamara’s odds of making the cut.
Finally, Barrows believes the 49ers will roster a fifth defensive tackle after Osa Odighizuwa, Alfred Collins, C.J. West and Gracen Halton. Either Eason or Thompson Jr. could jump the current positions held by Evan Anderson and Sebastian Valdez for the final roster slot.
This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers insider identifies 5 UDFAs with the best shot to make roster
Reporting by Oliver G., Niners Wire / Niners Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Oliver G., Niners Wire | USA TODAY Network
