The 49ers wasted no time snagging a starting-caliber player in free agency. They agreed to terms on a four-year, $54 million contract for inside linebacker Kwon Alexander just a couple hours after the NFL’s legal tampering period opened. San Francisco needs better starters in several spots on defense, and Alexander fills one of those holes.
There’s one hang up in getting Alexander into the starting lineup for Week 1. He tore an ACL in Week 7 last season, so his availability for the 2019 regular season is in question.
However, once he’s fully recovered he’ll be an every-down linebacker alongside Fred Warner. That gives the 49ers a good, young duo in the heart of their front seven.
Alexander’s biggest knock is a load of missed tackles, likely due to his lack of size. However, his responsibilities for San Francisco will involve a lot of coverage, and he’s plenty athletic to take on a workload that involves covering running backs and tight ends.
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Warner-Alexander pairing is the additional intelligence and instincts Alexander brings. Warner showed both of those qualities in abundance as a rookie. Now Alexander will do the same. They’ll be a uniquely athletic duo with an extremely high football IQ.
The 49ers set out this offseason to improve the top end of their roster. Their first move did that with Alexander set to play a significant role in the middle of the 49ers’ front seven as soon as he’s available.
About the Author: Insidethe49
