While the spotlight shines on the impending departure of Brandon Aiyuk and the recovery of star players, the foundational work of building a 90-man roster for the 2026 season is already underway at 49ers headquarters. In a flurry of transactions on January 20, the team signed 14 players to Reserve/Future contracts, a clear effort to identify and develop low-cost talent for training camp and beyond.
This group, which includes offensive lineman Isaac Alarcon, defensive lineman Evan Anderson, quarterback Adrian Martinez, and linebacker Dee Winters, represents the first layer of offseason roster construction. These signings allow the 49ers to retain the rights to players who finished the season on the practice squad or were on the street, giving them a full offseason program to compete for a role. Subsequent signings of tight end Hayden Rucci (January 22) and offensive lineman Zachary Thomas (January 21) to similar deals further bolster this developmental group. For players like Martinez, who enters his fifth year in 2026, it's a chance to solidify his standing as the potential QB3 behind Brock Purdy and Mac Jones, whom Coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated will remain with the team.
Looking ahead to April, the 49ers' draft strategy is coming into focus. Holding the 27th overall selection as a result of their playoff finish, the team is widely expected to address the offensive line. ESPN's premier draft analyst, Mel Kiper Jr., has projected the 49ers to select Utah tackle Caleb Lomu. The 6'5", 315-pound lineman is praised for his athleticism and power in the run game, making him an ideal fit for Kyle Shanahan's outside-zone scheme. With starting right tackle Colton McKivitz entering a contract year and general need for youth and depth across the front, Lomu would be a logical and impactful pick.
This dual approach—mining for gems via Reserve/Future deals and targeting immediate contributors in the first round—exemplifies the 49ers' roster-building philosophy. The flashy headlines will belong to trades and free agency, but sustainable success is built on successful drafts and shrewd development of young talent. As the 49ers navigate a tight salary cap, highlighted by Nick Bosa's $42 million cap hit and the voided Aiyuk money, these cost-controlled players and draft picks become even more critical to maintaining a championship-caliber roster.