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Veteran NFL edge rusher Kyle Van Noy has made it clear he would welcome the opportunity to play for the San Francisco 49ers. Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox believes the fit makes sense for coordinator Raheem Morris' defense.
Knox recently identified the top NFL free agents still available and suggested ideal landing spots for each player. For Van Noy, he highlighted the 49ers and the Minnesota Vikings as the best fits.
"Veteran defender Kyle Van Noy has always been a bit flexible during his 12-year NFL career," Knox wrote. "He was largely an all-around linebacker during his time with the Patriots, and he's been more of a pass-rush specialist over the last three seasons with the Ravens."
The 49ers continue to face questions about their pass rush heading into the 2026 season. Both Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams are working their way back from ACL injuries, while veteran Bryce Huff retired. The team drafted Romello Height, but many believe another veteran addition would be beneficial.
Van Noy, meanwhile, remains productive. He recorded 12.5 sacks with the Ravens in 2024 and has totaled 23.5 sacks and 54 quarterback pressures during his three seasons in Baltimore.
"Because of his experience and positional versatility, Van Noy could fit with a number of defenses as a free agent," Knox continued. "However, he's made it known that he'd love to land with the 49ers."
Earlier this offseason, during an appearance on the Up & Adams show, Van Noy praised the 49ers and identified them as one of his preferred destinations for the 2026 season. However, it remains unclear how much interest San Francisco has in adding the veteran defender.
"I'd really like to play with my little brother, Fred Warner, with the 49ers," Van Noy said. "I think they got something cooking over there ... But I would love to play with my little brother. That's my guy, and I think they got something cooking over there."
Knox believes the pairing would benefit both sides.
"San Francisco would be a sensible fit for Van Noy, given the fact that Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams are both returning from injuries," Knox added. "So would just about any team or coach familiar with Van Noy and what he can add as a multi-faceted veteran leader."
Van Noy is preparing to enter his 13th NFL season. Over his career, the two-time Super Bowl champion has recorded 57 sacks, 561 tackles, 102 quarterback hits, four interceptions, 14 forced fumbles, 10 fumble recoveries, and three defensive touchdowns.
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