The San Francisco 49ers clearly weren’t satisfied with having the league’s best defense in 2022.
They went ahead and added, arguably, the best defensive tackle in this free agency cycle on Monday, March 13 — shaking up the NFL in the process during the week of the free agency signing period.
before 1:20 p.m. Eastern, the 49ers have signed former Philadelphia Eagles Pro Bowl defensive tackle Javon Hargrave to a four-year, $84 million deal.
The Athletic’s 49ers insider David Lombardi didn’t take long to call the move what it is.
“This is a MASSIVE move for the 49ers, addressing their biggest weakness by signing the top DT available, Javon Hargrave,” . “Also very notable: The 49ers take away from the chief NFC rivals, the Eagles, with this signing.”
Others Sound Off on Blockbuster Signing
Hargrave has had his name mentioned with several potential suitors. Rightfully so, following his breakout 2022 that saw him deliver a career-best 11 sacks and 10 tackles for a loss for the NFC champs.
But the very thought of the 6-foot-2, 305-pound interior defender getting plugged on the 49ers defensive line sparked a bevy of reactions — including from Heavy NFL senior reporter Matt Lombardo.
“The 49ers defensive line is going to be a PROBLEM,” while naming off the projected starting lineup for next season with Hargrave next to Javon Kinlaw and having Nick Bosa plus Arik Armstead as the book ends.
The NFL Twitter account was another who posted its reaction…one with the concerned emoji face, likely for teams now having to game plan for the 49ers’ front line.
The newest addition the defense, Javon Hargrave 😳
— NFL ()
Meanwhile, 49er fans began posting past clips of Hargrave and the damage he’s capable of:
A look at newest Niner Javon Hargrave 👀
— Coach Yac 🗣 ()
The account for Bleacher Report Gridiron gave this prediction following the signing.
“San Francisco’s DL is going to be scary,” they shared after .
NFL analyst and former linebacker Emmanuel Acho of Fox Sports is another who praised the move while also compartmentalizing his fit to the 49ers defense.
“Bang bang …read more
Source:: Heavy.com