3 Best Offseason Moves From the San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers enjoyed a 2019 season in which they exceeded nearly everyone's expectations, winning the top seed in the NFC and making it to the Super Bowl. However, they came up short in the big game, and now they must figure out how to get back to the Super Bowl and win it this time. With some of their offseason moves, they feel they have a great chance to do just that.

Let's take a look at the three best offseason moves by the 49ers so far.

1. Re-Signing Arik Armstead

Arik Armstead totaled 10 sacks last season. / Focus On Sport/Getty Images

Arik Armstead was a big part of the 49ers' defensive success last season, totaling 10 sacks and 11 tackles for a loss. This offseason, they inked the defensive end to a five-year, $85M deal. What's even better is that the contract is back-loaded, giving the the flexibility to make moves to win now, then deal with restructuring contracts in the future.

2. Re-Signing Jimmie Ward

Jimmie Ward was re-signed to a team-friendly deal. / Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

Re-signing Jimmie Ward was another terrific move that kept talent in-house while also structuring contracts to create flexibility now. Ward was terrific at safety in 13 games last season, and he could have taken more money elsewhere. Instead, he took the $17M of guaranteed money and worked with the 49ers to back-load his contract, paying him after big names like Richard Sherman may be gone. Of course, there is also a potential out before the third year, saving the Niners a lot of money and making this contract very team-friendly.

3. Re-Signing Ben Garland

Ben Garland started from Week 14 on for the 49ers. / Michael Zagaris/Getty Images

This could end up being the biggest move most people won't talk about. Re-signing Ben Garland was of massive importance to this offensive line. Center Weston Richburg went down with a knee injury in Week 14 last season, and his status going forward is questionable, In his place, Garland started and played well. Garland is also able to play both guard spots. The 49ers' offensive line depth was a big reason for their success last season, and signing a quality, versatile lineman like Garland will help make sure they have depth again this year.

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