The San Francisco 49ers have a lot to focus on during the 2024 regular season, but the upcoming offseason could be even more critical.
For the past three years, the 49ers have enjoyed having quarterback Brock Purdy on one of the league’s cheapest contracts. However, that’s likely to change this winter with Purdy’s anticipated extension, which will tighten San Francisco’s budget as they continue their pursuit of a Super Bowl for head coach Kyle Shanahan.
The 49ers’ defense, stacked with stars, has been a cornerstone of the team’s identity for the last five years, and several key players have already secured contract extensions.
However, the leader of their secondary is set to hit free agency, raising doubts about whether the team will have the cap space to retain him.
Safety Talanoa Hufanga, the 49ers’ All-Pro in his fourth season, is dealing with injuries during what could be his final year on his rookie contract. Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department has projected Hufanga to sign with the Houston Texans in free agency.
“The Texans seem to have found a starting safety in Calen Bullock, and Jalen Pitre can play in the slot. Adding one more safety would solidify their secondary for next season,” the report stated.
“Hufanga is currently sidelined with a wrist injury that will keep him out for the next month, but he’s already proven to be one of the league’s top young safeties. He could be the missing piece for an improving Houston defense.”
At 25, Hufanga has been among the league’s best safeties when healthy, accumulating 96 total points saved throughout his career, according to Sports Info Solutions, including 56 during his standout 2022 All-Pro season.
While the 49ers would love to extend Hufanga before he hits free agency, his wrist injury complicates negotiations. This marks the second straight year where injuries have caused him to miss significant time.
If Hufanga leaves, the 49ers would prefer he not land with an NFC team, but even seeing him sign with Houston could be painful, especially if the Texans emerge as Super Bowl contenders in the years to come.
