While the drama of the NFL Draft often centers on the bright lights of the first round, the San Francisco 49ers have long understood that a championship roster is built in the shadows of the post draft frenzy. On Sunday, April 26, 2026, the team continued that tradition, announcing they have agreed to terms with eight undrafted rookie free agents (UDFAs) to bolster depth across the roster.
The 49ers’ commitment to finding "diamonds in the rough" is most evident in the signing of TE Khalil Dinkins (Penn State). With George Kittle rehabilitating a torn Achilles, Dinkins, who received a significant $275,000 guaranteed, is a legitimate candidate for the 53 man roster. A physical blocker with a 4.72-second 40-yard dash, Dinkins fits the "Y-tight end" mold the Niners crave.
In the receiving corps, the team added high upside speed. WR Wesley Grimes (NC State) is the literal definition of a "vertical threat," having been clocked at a blistering 4.24 during summer workouts. He is joined by WR Will Pauling (Notre Dame), a shifty slot option who stepped up as a primary target for the Irish last season.
True to form, the 49ers prioritized the defensive line, signing three versatile prospects:
James Thompson (Illinois): Standing 6-foot-6, Thompson received $280,000 guaranteed, signaling the team views him as a high floor developmental piece for the interior.
Mikail Kamara (Indiana): An undersized but productive pass rusher who tallied 10 sacks in 2024.
Bryson Eason (Tennessee): A massive 323 pound run-stuffer intended to eat up space in the A gap.
The 49ers also addressed the back end of their defense with S Jalen Stroman (Notre Dame). Many analysts were surprised Stroman wasn't selected in the late rounds. His physical playstyle and football IQ make him a strong candidate to push for a special teams role early on.
Finally, the team added competition for the punting unit with Jack Bouwmeester (Texas). Bouwmeester, a product of the same "ProKick Australia" pipeline that produced Mitch Wishnowsky, averaged 45.5 yards per punt in his career and will push veteran Corliss Waitman throughout the summer.
Historically, the 49ers have had great success with UDFAs, from backup quarterbacks to starting linebackers. With significant guaranteed money handed out to players like Thompson and Dinkins, it’s clear the front office isn't just looking for "camp bodies." These eight rookies now face the uphill battle of training camp, but in Santa Clara, the door to the active roster is always open for those who can perform.