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Isaac Bruce has retired from the NFL.
(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
Here is the list of the 49ers players that will become free agents at the conclusion of the NFL season.
NT Aubrayo Franklin- He might be the biggest name on the free agent list and probably will get a lot of huge offers from other teams this off-season. Regarded now as one of the better nose tackles in the game, the 49ers probably will use the franchise tag on Franklin. I expect the 49ers to KEEP him.
WR Isaac Bruce- His game in St. Louis all pointed to the finality of his amazing Hall of Fame career. His role lessened as the season progressed and if somehow Bruce does want to play on more season, the 49ers will not ask him back.
LB Jeff Ulbrich- He has played 10 years with the team and has announced his retirement. He might return in some coaching capacity if the situation works out.
G David Baas- Despite all the struggles of the offensive line, Baas has been a solid left guard for the team. Even though the 49ers are looking to get help during the Draft, retaining Baas might be a good idea.
LB Ahmad Brooks- Stepped up huge at the end of the year and helped improve the pass rush. There is a lot to like about Brooks in the organization and the 49ers should try to keep him.
CB Dre Bly- At a reasonable price, the 49ers can keep Bly. He was a good addition to the team and can still play well at cornerback. But if the 49ers do add a new cornerback from either free agency or Draft, Bly's chances of staying will be very minimal.
WR Arnaz Battle- I don't expect the 49ers to retain Battle. He was not good in punt returns and it looks like he's going to be outnumbered in the wide receiving group.
CB/S Marcus Hudson- The team might keep Hudson for his versatility. With strong safety Michael Lewis suffering setbacks this past season with concussions, Hudson could be a good insurance player.
RB Thomas Clayton- Coming off an ACL injury and has always performed well in the preseason. It probably won't hurt to have him back but it doesn't look like he will have a future with the team.
S Mark Roman- Finally stepped up this year and made some huge plays. However, he still isn't as good as the 49ers need in a safety. They can bring him back if the 49ers don't pursue a new safety in free agency or draft.
T Tony Pashos- A reliable veteran that got hurt during the year. The offensive line needs help and the 49ers could surely use him. I would hope they can use him as a starter, but that is to still be determined.
LB Matt Wilhelm- Had a decent game filling in for Takeo Spikes, but the 49ers don't need to keep him.
CB Walt Harris- After an ACL injury, the 49ers will look for younger, healthier help at cornerback.
T Barry Sims- Filled in nicely for an injured Joe Staley and could return in a backup role. His age (35) could be a factor, but worth the investment.
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If the new collective bargaining agreement does go through, Baas, Brooks and Hudson can be restricted free agents. That would give the 49ers an easier opportunity to retain them.
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The 49ers also signed OT Alex Boone, LB Martail Burnett, DT Khalif Mitchell and WR Dominique Zeigler to future contracts. All were on the practice squad this past season.
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