49ers Sign Safety Richie Grant to One-Year Deal

Santa Clara, California — The San Francisco 49ers have signed former Atlanta Falcons safety Richie Grant to a one-year contract, bolstering their defensive backfield as they navigate the NFL free agency period.

Grant, 27, was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Falcons from the University of Central Florida. He initially signed a four-year, $8.27 million rookie deal that will now extend into the 2025 season.

In the 2024 NFL season, Grant appeared in all 17 games for Atlanta, contributing 14 total tackles and defending two passes, though he made only one start. His consistent participation illustrates his readiness to step into a starting role with the 49ers, especially as the team prepares to lose a key player to free agency.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to join a competitive team like the 49ers,” Grant said in a statement. “I look forward to bringing my skills to the table and contributing to the defense.”

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in Grant’s potential impact: “Richie has shown he can play at a high level. We believe he can step in and help solidify our secondary.”

The move comes as the 49ers prepare for significant changes ahead of the new league year. They are reportedly set to lose running back Christian McCaffrey, who will enter free agency shortly. Meanwhile, Grant’s signing is viewed as an effort to strengthen a defense that has consistently ranked among the league’s best.

The legal tampering period for NFL free agency opened at noon on March 10, while official player signings began on March 12. As teams scramble to finalize their rosters, the 49ers are making strategic moves to ensure they remain in contention for a championship run next season.

Overall, Grant’s acquisition is part of a series of adjustments the 49ers are making as they transition into a new phase of player contracts and team dynamics for the upcoming season.