With the final cut deadline behind them, the 49ers are eyeing veteran options to bolster the safety room, and former Raiders and Patriots defender Marcus Epps has emerged as a plausible fit.
Epps, 29, has a journeyman’s resume that began after he played college ball at Wyoming. He went in the 2019 NFL draft to the Minnesota Vikings in the sixth round and eventually became a full-time starter with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022. The Las Vegas Raiders signed him to a two-year deal in 2023, and he appeared in a chunk of the defensive snaps—about 91% in his first year with the Raiders and roughly 90% through the opening games of his second season—before tearing an ACL. He then signed a one-year contract with the New England Patriots this offseason, only to be released after requesting his exit as New England’s safety group is crowded.
Over six NFL seasons, Epps has played in 82 games, recording 294 tackles (10 for loss), 18 passes defended, three interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. His experience includes extensive special-teams work and starting-caliber play, traits the 49ers have typically valued in veteran additions.
San Francisco’s safety depth currently features players like Jason Pinnock, Marques Sigle and Ji’Ayir Brown as likely starters, with Malik Mustapha sidelined by a torn ACL. Epps could step in as a reliable presence early in the season, potentially sliding into the rotation once Mustapha returns. He would bring that blend of smart tackling, versatility in coverage, and the ability to learn a complex defensive scheme—traits that could help stabilize the backend during a pivotal stretch of the schedule.
What this could mean for the 49ers
– A veteran with starting experience who can contribute immediately in a rotation.
– Added versatility to play in center-field and seam looks, aiding in Kyle Shanahan’s multi-front schemes.
– A cost-effective depth option that fits the team’s history of valuing reliable, hardworking defensive backs.
Takeaway: If San Francisco adds Epps, it would be a prudent, low-risk move to fortify the safety room while Mustapha recovers, offering a bridge to a potentially deeper group once the roster is fully healthy.
Summary: Marcus Epps’ release creates a potential landing spot for the 49ers as they fine-tune their secondary, offering immediate depth and veteran savvy with room to grow into a meaningful role in the rotation.
Notes for readers: A signing would align with the 49ers’ philosophy of adding affordable, versatile veterans to complement a young core, while giving the defense experienced guidance during a crucial part of the season. If brought in, Epps would be watched closely for his ability to adapt quickly to San Francisco’s schemes and to contribute both in coverage and run support.