The San Francisco 49ers probably are not going to be the best team in the NFC West next season. That is not an aggressive statement based on the rebuilding job presented to the combination of GM John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan but, since taking over the reins, the pairing has done a number of interesting things to improve the standing of the roster. On Monday, the Niners were at it again, as Lynch took to Twitter to announce that San Francisco reached a contract agreement with former five-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Elvis Dumervil.
Dumervil led the NFL with 17 sacks back in 2009 and the former Louisville standout boasts four seasons with double-digit sack totals to go along with his five Pro Bowl appearances. The now 33-year-old missed eight games in 2016 as a result of a foot injury, but Dumervil ended his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens in strong fashion and he looks to have quite a bit left in the tank.
While this may seem like an oddly timed move for an organization that is going with youth and upside, Dumervil provides a ready-made option that can get after the quarterback and, when he isn't doing that, he'll serve as a mentor to the likes of DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead. Depending on the cost (likely minimal), this looks like a strong pick-up for the Niners.