The San Francisco 49ers are centering their free-agency focuses on defense this offseason. The team has shown interest in the likes of Darrelle Revis and Cullen Jenkins. With the expected departures of safety Dashon Goldson and defensive tackle Isaac Sopoaga, defense must be the priority for a team looking to get back into Super Bowl contention. While the 49ers have reportedly backed off a potential trade with cornerback Revis, the team is now looking at defensive end John Abraham.
USA Today reports that Abraham had a planned visit to San Francisco over the weekend and the team could make a pull at the veteran during the free agency period. The 35-year old was recently released from the Atlanta Falcons. The 49ers would likely not offer him any sort of long-term contract considering he is getting up there in age.
Despite his age, Abraham could be a key weapon in the defense's pass rush. Abraham has played in a 4-3 defense most of his pro career, but was drafted as a 3-4 linebacker and could still play the position. Abraham had led Atlanta in sacks almost every year of his seven-year career with the team. In 2012, he registered 32 total tackles along with 10 sacks and six forced fumbles. He would be a strong presence on the line for San Francisco.
Abraham made $4.4 million in 2012 with the Falcons. He would be a very affordable option for any team willing to give him a short-term contract. He is drawing a lot of interest from teams during this free agency time. The Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints have both reached out to Abraham's representatives in interest, along with the Seattle Seahawks. The 49ers would need to quickly wrap him up before another team lures him away.
The 49ers are well set up for the upcoming draft. The team acquired the No. 34 pick overall after a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs involving Alex Smith. They also have 14 other picks to decide what to do with. There are plenty of defensive standouts in this year's draft so the team could opt to draft a rookie if they are unable to sign Abraham.
