The San Francisco 49ers moved on from Leonard Floyd this offseason and now may look to replace him in free agency. They could target a New York Giants pass rusher to do so.
Azeez Ojulari was a hot name during the trade deadline but ultimately stayed with the Giants. Now a free agent, Ojulari is looking for an opportunity to show what he can do as a starter. USA Today’s Cory Woodroof predicted he would replace Floyd on the 49ers.
“The 49ers need more help on the defensive line, and Ojulari is the exact kind of player who goes to San Francisco, thrives for a bit and then gets paid elsewhere down the road,” wrote Woodroof.
Ojulari was buried on the Giants depth chart behind Brian Burnes and Kayvon Thibodeaux. However, he was still able to make an impact with limited reps. He had six sacks last season despite starting just five games and playing 58% of snaps. He has 22 sacks in four years despite starting just 30 of 46 possible games. In 2021, as a rookie, he had eight sacks when he started a career-high 13 games.
Spotrac projects him to earn a two-year, $15 million deal this offseason. The 49ers could sign him two a short-term deal as he tries to build value as a starter. He could benefit greatly from all the attention Nick Bosa gets, potentially leading to a breakout campaign.
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