The 49ers planned to sign veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks, but he changed his mind and joined the Dallas Cowboys instead, leaving the team in limbo. Kendricks had previously played for the Minnesota Vikings under Mike Zimmer. This decision came after Dre Greenlaw's injury in the Super Bowl.

Kendricks, who was recently released by the Los Angeles Chargers, was expected to add depth to the 49ers' linebacker corps. His last season with the Chargers was under coach Brandon Staley, whom the 49ers hired as a defensive assistant. With uncertainty at linebacker, the team will need to explore other options.