49ers add OL depth, reach deal with D.J…..

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**49ers Add Offensive Line Depth, Reach Deal with D.J. Humphries**

The San Francisco 49ers have taken a proactive step to bolster their offensive line ahead of the 2025 NFL season, reaching an agreement with veteran offensive tackle D.J. Humphries. The move adds valuable experience and depth to a unit that has faced scrutiny in recent seasons, especially in high-stakes matchups.

Humphries, 31, spent the first nine years of his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals, who selected him in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. After missing his rookie season due to injury, Humphries grew into a reliable blindside protector and eventually became a cornerstone of Arizona’s offensive front. He started over 90 games in his career and earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2021.

While Humphries is coming off a torn ACL suffered late in the 2023 season, he has reportedly made significant progress in his recovery and is expected to be fully available during training camp. The 49ers, known for taking calculated risks on veterans, are banking on his return to form and believe his presence can elevate their offensive line’s physicality and consistency.

San Francisco’s offensive line has long been anchored by All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams, but depth has been an ongoing concern. Injuries and inconsistent play from younger linemen left the unit vulnerable at times, particularly in the playoffs. By adding Humphries, the 49ers gain a versatile lineman capable of playing both tackle positions and providing insurance in case of injuries.

The terms of the deal have not been officially disclosed, but sources suggest it is a one-year contract with incentives tied to playing time and performance milestones. That structure reflects both Humphries’ injury history and the 49ers’ desire to maintain roster flexibility while addressing key needs.

General manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have emphasized the importance of winning in the trenches, particularly as the team continues to rely on a balanced offensive attack featuring Christian McCaffrey and quarterback Brock Purdy. With the NFC remaining highly competitive, reinforcing the offensive line could be a difference-maker in the team’s pursuit of another Super Bowl berth.

Humphries’ leadership and experience are also expected to benefit younger players like Spencer Burford and Colton McKivitz, who have shown promise but remain inconsistent. Having a seasoned veteran in the locker room provides mentorship and competition, raising the standard across the unit.

This signing marks another strategic addition in a busy offseason for the 49ers, who have also focused on re-signing core contributors and adding depth through the draft. While not the flashiest move, acquiring Humphries could pay dividends as the team navigates the physical demands of a long season.

If healthy, Humphries gives San Francisco a trusted veteran presence and much-needed insurance at a premium position. With their championship window still wide open, every piece matters—and D.J. Humphries could prove to be a valuable one.

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