San Francisco 49ers seek depth at defensive end amid injuries

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 1:05 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

San Francisco 49ers seek depth at defensive end amid injuries
Summary

The San Francisco 49ers face a thin roster at defensive end entering Week 1 following a series of injury setbacks. Sam Okuayinonu has been moved to injured reserve, joining Mykel Williams on the reserve list, while Nick Bosa continues recovery from an ACL repair. Third-round pick Romello Height has also dealt with intermittent injury issues during the preseason. With limited proven depth, analysts suggest the organization may pursue veteran free agents such as Leonard Floyd or Joey Bosa to stabilize the position. Alternatively, the team could target an acquisition ahead of the November 10 trade deadline. San Francisco currently relies on Keion White to help anchor the pass rush while managing the health of the remaining group.

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Status Watch
  • Sam Okuayinonu is on injured reserve and will miss at least one month of play.
  • Mykel Williams remains on the PUP list to start the season.
  • Nick Bosa is practicing after missing most of training camp.
  • Management may pursue free agents like Leonard Floyd or Joey Bosa to add veteran depth.
Latest Updates
  • 1:05 PMYahoo Sports49ers Predicted To Add Veteran DE as Defensive End Problem Grows Wider
What they're saying
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The San Francisco 49ers already had a hole at defensive end, and somehow, it has only gotten bigger heading into Week 1. Nick Bosa is still working his way back, Mykel Williams remains on PUP and now Sam Okuayinonu is headed to injured reserve. That leaves the Niners dangerously thin up front. Matt Barrows believes […] The post 49ers Predicted To Add Veteran DE as Defensive End Problem Grows Wider appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

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