The San Francisco 49ers aren't the only team that could make the perfect roster move of signing free-agent defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah before the 2024 NFL training camp. Already boasting one of the league's best rosters, Ogbah seems like a no-brainer fit for the 49ers.
Unlike other teams, this type of move would fill a depth need. But that's exactly the type of transaction a Super Bowl contender wants to make. Depth wins championships.
The 49ers already added a major piece at the edge position, reeling in stud defender Leonard Floyd. With Floyd and Nick Bosa wrapping up the edges, San Francisco is solid upon solid at that position. Enter Ogbah, who could add to a depth mix that doesn't look as sturdy. Yetur Gross-Matos hasn't found his footing in the NFL and unproven Drake Jackson comes off a knee injury, so there's a welcome open door for Ogbah.
The 6-foot-4, 275-pound Ogbah doesn't carry NFL star credentials. But he's a guy who is effective enough to fill a need. And this is what the 49ers need.
Ogbah was released by the Dolphins earlier this year, but hasn’t found a home yet. Part of the problem seems to be the amount of money Ogbah wants.
However, having the chance to play for a team that is some experts' top pick to win the Super Bowl might be enough for him to accept less money. The 49ers are ranked No. 2 by Pro Football talk, but that’s only in deference to two-time defending champion Kansas City. The Chiefs have experienced a myriad of offseason woes, and don’t figure to be in a great position for a threepeat — no matter what magic Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid have up their sleeves.
What would DE Emmanuel Ogbah bring to 49ers?
Based on his lack of a starting role with the Dolphins in 2023, Ogbah profiles as a helper as opposed to a leader. His performances over the last two years didn't match the four-year, $65 million contract extension he signed in 2022.
An injury derailed his 2022 season but he showed life with 5.5 sacks in a reserve role last year. That tied for the third-highest total of his career. Ogbah racked up nine sacks in both 2020 and 2021.
One thing Ogbah would bring to the 49ers is comfort. It's challenging for the defensive coaching staff to take Bosa off the field. But having a veteran presence like Ogbah would allow Bosa opportunities to rest, especially in the middle stages of the game.
Like Floyd, Ogbah boasts the explosiveness that has been a trademark of 49ers defensive linemen. His strong points include the ability to drive blockers into the backfield. Considering his attributes, he profiles as a strong threat to adequately rush the passer in a part-time role. And he may still have enough left in the tank to make a start against teams that aren't run heavy.
San Francisco is an organization of luxuries, but the NFL has a way of taking its toll on teams that perennially appear in the playoffs. Injuries will happen, so players like Ogbah become important pieces. Not just during the lengthy 17 games, but also into the postseason. And the 49ers certainly expect to be there again.
The end rotation includes Alex Barrett, Sam Okuayinonu, Robert Beal Jr., and Austin Bryant. There's a lot to like about the bunch, but Ogbah would make it better.
Follow Us
Subscribe
