The San Francisco 49ers may be facing a pivotal offseason, where making significant changes to their roster could be necessary to re-open their Super Bowl window. The team’s chances of competing for a championship this year were undermined by injuries, special teams struggles, and issues in the red zone. As a result, the 49ers might need to reassess their roster, and one area that could undergo significant change is the defensive line.
A key move for the 49ers in the offseason could be parting ways with defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. Hargrave, who was signed to a four-year, $84 million deal in 2023, hasn’t lived up to expectations. While he had a strong performance in Week 3 against the Los Angeles Rams, his season was marred by a triceps injury that prematurely ended his campaign.
Despite his strong pass-rushing ability, which led to 72 pressures and nine sacks in 22 games (including the postseason), Hargrave didn’t provide the dominant force the 49ers were hoping for. His inability to consistently impact the run game and ease pressure on other defensive linemen has raised questions about his fit in San Francisco.
The 49ers are in need of a defensive line overhaul, and parting with the 31-year-old Hargrave ahead of his 32nd birthday may be a logical step. This move would not only help them revamp the defensive front, but it would also provide them with valuable salary cap space, which will be crucial as they plan for future contracts, especially for quarterback Brock Purdy.
Releasing Hargrave would result in a $24.86 million dead cap hit for the 49ers next year, but they would save $3.245 million. This cap savings would be significant for a team already under pressure to manage their finances effectively. Additionally, Hargrave’s departure would open up an opportunity for younger players to earn more playing time on the defensive line.
The 49ers could also consider designating Hargrave as a post-June 1 cut, which would reduce his dead cap charge to $7.375 million, while increasing their cap savings to $20.73 million. This approach would allow them to manage the financial hit in a way that provides more flexibility in the coming season.
Although Hargrave still has the potential to be productive on a strong defensive line, the 49ers may ultimately decide that the financial and roster-building benefits of cutting him outweigh the value of keeping him for another year. This decision would be a part of the broader overhaul that the team may undertake as they look to re-establish themselves as a Super Bowl contender.
