As the NFL gears up for the offseason, the San Francisco 49ers made a significant move by releasing defensive tackle Javon Hargrave as a Post-June-1 cut. This decision comes after Hargrave has fully recovered from a tricep injury that sidelined him early in the 2024 season. From a financial standpoint, the 49ers now free up $2.2 million in cap space, providing them the flexibility to potentially re-sign key free agents like safety Talanoa Hufanga, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, and cornerback Charvarius Ward.
For Hargrave, this release opens the door for him to find a new home with a contender when free agency officially kicks off on March 12th. At 32, coming off a significant injury, it may be unrealistic to expect a top-tier contract. However, he still brings immense value, especially as a rotational piece capable of bolstering a team’s interior pass rush.
There are numerous teams that could benefit from what Hargrave brings to the table. One intriguing destination is the Cincinnati Bengals. They’ve faced challenges on defense due to a mix of inexperienced players and some aging veterans. The Bengals recently invested in two defensive tackles in the draft, selecting Kris Jenkins from Michigan and McKinnley Jackson from Texas A&M in the top 100. Hargrave, being a cost-effective veteran option, could be an ideal fit as Cincinnati navigates upcoming contract negotiations with their star players. His presence would not only help solidify a defense in need but also give Hargrave a chance to chase one last championship ring.
Another team poised for action is the Pittsburgh Steelers—Hargrave’s original NFL home, where he was drafted in 2016. Following a disappointing season, particularly for the defensive tackle position, bringing Hargrave back would make a lot of sense. With the potential departure of Larry Ogunjobi, whose exit could save the Steelers $7 million against the cap, reuniting with Hargrave would bring not just talent but also the kind of leadership and cultural fit that head coach Mike Tomlin values. This move would allow the team to signal a commitment to returning to defensive dominance and assist in the development of younger players like Kenneth Grant.
Lastly, we cannot overlook the Arizona Cardinals as a strong contender to land Hargrave, especially considering his connection with head coach Jonathan Gannon. After serving as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator during a successful stint where Hargrave played a pivotal role, Gannon may be eager to bolster his new team’s defensive front. The Cardinals are in significant need of defensive line talent, and while Hargrave alone won’t fix everything, he could kickstart a defensive overhaul. With over $70 million in cap space, the Cardinals have the resources to make a splash in free agency, and Hargrave’s return could pave the way for a formidable line, especially if he reunites with former Eagles teammate Josh Sweat.
As the free agency period approaches, the landscape is shifting rapidly. With a player like Hargrave on the market, teams will be looking to capitalize on his experience and skill set, signaling an exciting time ahead for all involved. Keep an eye on these potential landing spots, as they could significantly impact not only individual careers but the playoff landscape as a whole moving forward.
