49ers Hand Shilo Sanders Shocking Second Chance — His Future Hangs on Medicals
San Francisco, CA – August 29, 2025
The San Francisco 49ers have reached a verbal agreement with defensive back Shilo Sanders, according to team sources, with the deal pending the results of a medical evaluation. The move underscores San Francisco’s effort to reinforce depth in the secondary as the 2025 season approaches.
Sanders, 25, arrives with both name recognition and proven college production. The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, he forged his own path with stops at South Carolina, Jackson State, and Colorado. Across 41 career games, he totaled 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and six forced fumbles, including a standout 2023 season at Colorado where he led the Buffaloes in solo tackles.
His path to San Francisco has been turbulent. Sanders went undrafted in 2025 before signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his stint ended abruptly when he was released on August 24 following a preseason ejection for unnecessary roughness. That setback raised doubts about his NFL future, though the 49ers see value in taking a closer look at his potential.
Medical concerns are at the center of the decision. Sanders tore his ACL in 2022 and dealt with lingering issues in 2024, leading San Francisco to require a full medical clearance before finalizing the deal.
The 49ers’ interest is timely. With injuries testing their secondary in camp, adding a versatile defensive back who can line up at both safety and cornerback — and contribute on special teams — is viewed as a low-risk, potentially high-reward move.
Reactions among fans and analysts have been mixed. Some believe Sanders’ injury history makes him too much of a gamble, while others argue San Francisco’s locker-room culture could provide the stability needed for his redemption.
Sanders himself voiced gratitude for the opportunity. “People call me a risk, they say I’ve had injuries and mistakes — but all I need is one second chance. The 49ers believe in me when others didn’t, and I promise San Francisco I’ll fight for every snap in red and gold.”
If he passes his medical evaluation, Sanders could find not only a roster spot in San Francisco but also the chance to write a redemption story on one of the NFL’s most ambitious contenders.
