San Francisco 49ers Reach Verbal Agreement to Sign Shilo Sanders, Pending Medical Check

The San Francisco 49ers have reached a verbal agreement with safety Shilo Sanders to join their practice squad, pending the outcome of a medical check. The move underscores San Francisco’s search for defensive depth entering the 2025 season.

Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, arrives with both name recognition and on-field production from his college career. Stops at South Carolina, Jackson State, and Colorado highlighted his versatility as a defensive back and playmaker.

The 25-year-old went undrafted in 2025 but signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His preseason stint ended abruptly after a high-profile ejection for unnecessary roughness, leading to his release on August 24 before roster cutdown day.

Despite that setback, Sanders brings intriguing upside. Across 41 college games, he recorded 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and six forced fumbles, including a standout 2023 season at Colorado where he led the team in solo tackles.

The 49ers’ secondary has been under constant evaluation. With injuries testing depth at safety, San Francisco sees Sanders as a low-risk addition to bolster competition. His ability to play safety, corner, and contribute on special teams adds appeal.

However, the agreement is not yet final. Sanders has a history of injuries, including a 2022 ACL tear and missed time in 2024 with lingering issues. The medical evaluation will determine whether the deal becomes official.

Fan and media reactions have been divided. Some question whether San Francisco should invest in a player carrying off-field drama and medical red flags, while others see untapped potential worth developing under the 49ers’ strong infrastructure.

For Sanders, the chance represents a potential lifeline after an uneven start to his NFL journey. If he passes his medical check, San Francisco could be the team that offers him a second chance to prove he belongs.