49ers Set to Host Free Agent Safety Juan Thornhill This Week

San Francisco, CA — The San Francisco 49ers are preparing to host free-agent safety Juan Thornhill for a visit on Thursday, according to FOX Sports reporter Jordan Schultz. The move comes as the team looks to strengthen its defensive lineup after several key player departures in free agency.

Thornhill, who has started 74 games over his six-year NFL career, previously played for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Cleveland Browns. After being drafted in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft (No. 63 overall) from the University of Virginia, he immediately established himself as a starter in Kansas City. However, his career was interrupted by a torn ACL in his rookie season.

Despite facing challenges in the following seasons, Thornhill regained his starting position in 2022 after the departure of key players Daniel Sorensen and Tyrann Mathieu from the Chiefs’ roster. While he matched his rookie interception total last season, he struggled in some regards, giving up more touchdown passes and allowing nearly three more yards per target compared to his earlier career performance.

Last season with the Browns, Thornhill recorded 49 tackles, one quarterback hit, and three passes defensed in 11 starts, participating in 57% of the team’s defensive snaps. In 87 career games, he has accumulated a total of 337 tackles, six tackles for loss, seven quarterback hits, one sack, 24 passes defensed, eight interceptions, a touchdown, and a forced fumble.

At 29 years old and standing 6 feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, Thornhill is expected to bring a particular set of skills to the 49ers’ defense. However, some analysts express concerns regarding missed tackles, noting that his missed tackle rate exceeds 20 percent when he is a starter.

The 49ers’ defense, previously lauded for its effectiveness under former coordinator Robert Saleh, thrived on players who excelled in fundamental areas like tackling—factors that are critical for a dominant defensive structure. Thornhill’s style appears more aligned with coverage play, which may present a contrast to the traits the 49ers typically covet in their safeties.

While Thornhill represents a potential addition to the team, the 49ers have been evaluating various safety options with unique skillsets, aiming to find the ideal combination for their defensive strategy. The visit is significant not only for Thornhill as he seeks to find a new home but also for the 49ers as they look to enhance their squad ahead of the new season.

As free agency progresses, the 49ers are expected to remain active in the market, reshaping their roster to maintain competitiveness in the upcoming NFL season.