One veteran pass rusher who has been part of the chatter is Kyle Van Noy, who remains a free agent and believes he can still start in the league. “I think right now it’s about being on a competitive team and having an opportunity to make it to that last game,” Van Noy said in a July 6 video from SiriusXM NFL Radio. “That’s definitely on my mind. I have a lot of juice left. I definitely could still be a starter in the NFL, but whatever role is carved out for me, I’m ready to roll. I’ve never been more excited for another opportunity.”
During his most recent season with the Baltimore Ravens, Van Noy posted a 63.0 overall defensive grade, according to Pro Football Focus. His PFF pass-rush grade stood at 51.8, with a run-defense grade of 76.7. He recorded 27 total pressures as a pass rusher, including two sacks, 17 hurries, and eight hits.
Van Noy also spoke about what he would bring to a contending team seeking to bolster its pass rush and add veteran experience for a potential playoff run. “Whenever it comes, it’s gonna come. Whatever team is gonna pick me up, they’re gonna get somebody that’s respectful and puts in that work. I’ve been in every situation. I think that also goes unnoticed, especially during today’s time where everybody wants youth and different things. I’m bringing that tenacity, especially in those big moments and big games.”
Van Noy has expressed a clear interest in playing for the 49ers. He noted that during his time at BYU, he was a teammate of 49ers linebacker Fred Warner, and with San Francisco looking to be a playoff contender, the signing would make sense as training camp approaches. “I really would like to play with my little brother, Fred Warner, with the Niners,” he said. “I think they’ve got something cooking over there; I know they love Joey Bosa because of Nick and all that, and I get that. But I would love to play with my little brother. That’s my guy. And I think they’ve got something cooking.”
At this point, there’s no indication the 49ers are actively pursuing a veteran free agent signing. The team could revisit the idea once training camp begins if they determine there is a need to bolster the pass rush.
For now, the 49ers are counting on the returning core and young additions to elevate their pressure production. Nick Bosa’s continued dominance, Mykel Williams’ development, and Romello Height’s potential impact in the draft are expected to be the primary catalysts for improvement, with veteran depth a potential contingency if camp reveals a need.
This overview reflects ongoing discussions about veteran edge help and the broader responsibilities of the 2026 roster-building plan, emphasizing readiness, depth, and the pursuit of a deep postseason run.
