The 49ers announced they signed S Craig Dahl to a three-year contract on Saturday afternoon.
After meeting with veteran safeties Louis Delmas and Charles Woodson, general manager Trent Baalke chose to go with a more under the radar safety. Dahl, 27, was the starter in all 16 games for the St. Louis Rams last season and finished with 78 tackles to go with an interception. Financial details have not been released.
Trent Baalke liked the previous experience from Dahl in the NFC West during his time with the Rams. He said this played a factor because he knew the opponents in the division well.
"We are pleased to announce the signing of Craig [Dahl]," Baakle said in a statement. "He is an experienced veteran with excellent intangibles, who has working knowledge of the NFC West."
Dahl was initially signed as an undrafted free agent by the New York Giants in 2007. He became a starter for a month before tearing his ACL in December 2007. Dahl eventually won a Super Bowl with the Giants as they defeated the then-undefeated Patriots 17-14.
With Dashon Goldson signing a five-year deal with Tampa Bay earlier this week, the 49ers needed to address the safety position. Only C.J. Spillman, Michael Thomas and 2012 sixth-round draft pick Trenton Robinson are under contract. Dahl will join the mix and could be competing with another safety who taken in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Even though Dahl was previously on the Rams, he put any differences aside when choosing the 49ers. He likes what the team has done and will be ready to contribute this fall.
"[The 49ers are] not the enemy anymore," said Dahl. "I was privileged to play in the NFC West, and I'm really familiar with what's going on here in San Francisco and the direction they're heading. I couldn't be happier with the opportunity I've been given."
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