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49ers Sign Versatile DE Cam Sample
Ex-Bengals pass rusher brings depth and flexibility to San Francisco's defensive line.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:45pm by Ben Kaplan
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A cubist interpretation of a 49ers defensive lineman making a play, reflecting the team's depth and versatility on the defensive front.San Francisco TodayThe San Francisco 49ers have signed free agent defensive end Cam Sample to a one-year contract. Sample, who previously played for the Cincinnati Bengals, is known for his versatility to play both interior defensive line and edge rusher positions. After missing the 2024 season due to an Achilles injury, Sample made a strong comeback in 2025 and will now look to provide depth and flexibility to the 49ers' defensive front.
Why it matters
The 49ers have long had one of the NFL's top defensive units, and adding a versatile player like Sample gives them more options to rotate players and adapt to different offensive schemes. Sample's ability to play multiple positions is valuable, especially for a team that prides itself on a deep and disruptive defensive line.
The details
Over his four NFL seasons, Sample has recorded 7 sacks and 85 total tackles. After missing the 2024 season due to an Achilles injury, he returned in 2025 to appear in 14 games and make 2 starts for the Bengals, registering 2 sacks and 17 tackles. His combination of size, strength and quickness allows him to be effective both as an interior pass rusher and on the edge.
- Sample missed the entire 2024 NFL season due to an Achilles injury.
- In 2025, Sample appeared in 14 games and made 2 starts for the Cincinnati Bengals.
The players
Cam Sample
A 26-year-old defensive end who has spent the last four seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals. Known for his versatility to play both interior defensive line and edge rusher positions.
San Francisco 49ers
An NFL franchise based in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for having one of the league's top defensive units over the past decade.
What they’re saying
“Cam Sample's versatility and ability to contribute both inside and on the edge makes him a valuable addition to our defensive line rotation.”
— John Lynch, General Manager, San Francisco 49ers
What’s next
The 49ers will look to integrate Sample into their defensive line rotation during the team's offseason program and training camp, with the goal of him providing depth and flexibility to their front seven.
The takeaway
The 49ers' signing of Cam Sample represents a low-risk, high-upside move that addresses their need for defensive line depth and versatility. If Sample can stay healthy and build on his strong 2025 comeback season, he could prove to be an important piece of San Francisco's defensive puzzle in the year ahead.
