Outside linebacker/defensive end Ahmad Brooks showed a lot of promise in the final six games of the season after replacing Manny Lawson on third downs to rush the passer. Brooks tied for second on the 49ers with six sacks.
But Brooks still has a lot to prove. And it would not be a shock if the 49ers used a high pick in the draft later this month to bolster their pass rush. That is why Brooks made a wise move Tuesday evening when he signed an injury waiver as a safeguard to begin participating in the 49ers’ offseason conditioning program.
Brooks is an unsigned restricted free agent. He still can negotiate with other teams for another two weeks. He is scheduled to make $1.759 million for the 49ers this season. If he signed an offer sheet with another team, the 49ers would have the right to match the terms of the contract to retain his services. If the 49ers declined to match, they would receive a second-round pick as compensation.
Starting left guard David Baas is in an identical situation. He is an unsigned restricted free agent, and he has a lot to prove. Baas signed his waiver and has been participating in the 49ers’ offseason work, including the team’s practices during “organized team activities” on Monday and Tuesday. Baas is scheduled to make $1.226 on his one-year tender. The 49ers would receive a third-round pick as compensation if they failed to match any contract he might sign with another club.
Nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin, the 49ers’ franchise player, remains unsigned. He has not participated in the 49ers’ offseason program.
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