San Francisco 49ers Re-Sign Offensive Lineman Austen Pleasants

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the San Francisco 49ers are actively shaping their roster following a successful yet injury-plagued season that saw them reach the divisional round of the playoffs. A significant move in their offseason strategy is the re-signing of offensive lineman Austen Pleasants, who has opted to remain with the team after spending over a month in free agency. This decision is particularly noteworthy as the 49ers aim to bolster their offensive line depth.

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Austen Pleasants, who went undrafted in 2020, has had a tumultuous career, playing for five different teams before finding a stable position with the 49ers. His experience includes brief stints with the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Chargers, but he has gained valuable playing time in San Francisco, participating in 18 games over the past two seasons and earning a start last year. Despite limited offensive snaps—totaling 125 in the 2025 season—Pleasants has demonstrated reliability when called upon, making him an important asset for the 49ers, especially given their history of injuries.

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Adam Schefter of ESPN confirmed the re-signing, stating, “Exclusive rights free agents who re-signed today include 49ers OT Austen Pleasants.” This move reflects the team's strategy to maintain players who are familiar with their offensive scheme, enhancing their overall depth. The 49ers have also recently secured a two-year, $50 million contract extension for star left tackle Trent Williams, further solidifying their offensive line.

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Retaining Pleasants is crucial for the 49ers as they prepare for the upcoming season. His familiarity with the team’s system and proven capability on the field provide a safety net for the offensive line, particularly if Williams faces any challenges in maintaining his health throughout the season. The 49ers' focus on depth is a strategic response to the injuries that have plagued them in recent years, aiming to ensure they remain competitive.

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While the re-signing of Pleasants has been viewed positively, some analysts question whether the team is doing enough to address the overall depth of their offensive line. Critics argue that relying on players with limited experience may not be sufficient to withstand the rigors of a full NFL season.

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• “Exclusive rights free agents who re-signed today include 49ers OT Austen Pleasants,” — Adam Schefter, ESPN

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The San Francisco 49ers' decision to re-sign Austen Pleasants underscores their commitment to building a resilient roster as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming NFL season.

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