The San Francisco 49ers are preparing to add depth to their secondary, expected to sign safety Shilo Sanders following his waiver release. The deal hinges on a successful health check before any agreement becomes official.

Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, brings both pedigree and baggage. He flashed ball skills in college but enters the NFL surrounded by questions about injuries and off-field controversies that continue to follow him.

The 25-year-old went undrafted in 2025 before signing with Tampa Bay. He played three preseason games, but his stint ended abruptly after an ejection against Buffalo for unnecessary roughness, leading the Buccaneers to release him.

Despite the setback, San Francisco sees potential. Sanders recorded 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and six forced fumbles in 41 college games. At Colorado in 2023, he led the Pac-12 in forced fumbles while anchoring the Buffaloes’ defense.

The 49ers have dealt with depth challenges in their secondary, particularly with injuries during camp. Sanders’ versatility as a safety, slot defender, and special-teams contributor makes him a sensible low-risk addition if he clears medical checks.

Medical history remains the biggest obstacle. Sanders tore his ACL in 2022 and missed time again in 2024. Team doctors will need to confirm his durability before San Francisco finalizes any practice squad deal.

Off-field drama further complicates matters, from legal and financial troubles to high-profile family scrutiny. For the 49ers, this is a calculated risk — betting on raw ability while acknowledging potential distractions in the locker room.

For Sanders, San Francisco could represent a fresh start and a chance to carve his NFL role. If cleared, the 49ers offer a platform to grow while proving talent can outweigh the surrounding noise.