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49ers sign 2 former Packers OL

San Francisco, CA – May 9, 2025 — The San Francisco 49ers added depth to their offensive line on Friday, signing veteran tackles Andre Dillard and Nicholas Petit-Frere following rookie minicamp evaluations.

Dillard, a former first-round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, spent the 2024 season as a reserve lineman with the Green Bay Packers, playing just 13 offensive snaps all year. Despite being a recurring name in trade rumors, no deal materialized. His addition gives San Francisco an experienced, if underutilized, option on the bench.

As for Petit-Frere, fans may recall his rough outing last season with the Tennessee Titans, particularly in a lopsided matchup against the Packers where the Titans allowed eight sacks — a stark contrast to the Packers' average of just 2.3 sacks per game across their other 16 contests. Statistically, Petit-Frere was among the league’s lowest-rated pass blockers in 2024.

Whether these signings significantly elevate the 49ers’ protection unit remains to be seen. However, they add much-needed competition and insurance behind Colton McKivitz (2-year, $4.6M deal) and D.J. Humphries (1-year, $2M), who are expected to compete for the starting right tackle role.

The 49ers’ offensive line depth took hits in free agency with the departures of Aaron Banks (Packers), Jaylon Moore (Chiefs), and Charlie Heck (Buccaneers) — all of whom started games last season. San Francisco didn’t address the offensive line until Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, making these post-draft additions even more critical.

Dillard’s signing also marks a footnote for Green Bay: he was one of just two remaining unrestricted free agents from their 2024 squad. With his departure, only tight end Tyler Davis, currently battling injury concerns, remains unsigned — though cornerback Robert Rochell has since returned to the market after being released by the Kansas City Chiefs.

Legendary Drew Brees Praises the Performance of the Saints' Rookie RB, the Perfect Replacement for Alvin Kamara
Can you believe it? The 2025 season is turning into a nightmare for the New Orleans Saints' running back corps, with superstar Alvin Kamara suffering a severe injury to his knee and ankle right in Week 12! Kendre Miller is also out for similar reasons, leaving Saints fans in a panic: Who will save the offense? But don't worry, a "hidden gem" rookie from the 6th round of the draft has stepped into the spotlight, turning Kamara's absence into a golden opportunity to shine brilliantly – and he's even received "high-flying" praise from legendary Drew Brees! Things didn't go as planned: Kamara was expected to "revive" under head coach Kellen Moore, while Miller awaited an explosive season. But injuries struck, opening the door for this young guy – a former college star with all-time records in rushing yards and touchdowns at Kansas. Initially, he was predicted to just sit on the bench, even being a "healthy scratch" in the first few weeks of the season. But when Kamara went down, he was thrust into the lead role, and oh boy, his performance is making the entire NFL take notice! It took a few weeks to "warm up," but this rookie has improved day by day, earning trust from Moore. His career-best game? A sweet 84 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers! His touches skyrocketed: 12 times against the Falcons (7 rushes, 5 receptions), 17 times against the Dolphins (14 rushes, 3 receptions), then exploding with 20 opportunities in the upset win over the Buccaneers (19 rushes, 1 reception). Not only an efficient rusher, he's also a "golden shield" in the passing game – catching 16/18 targets for 100 yards this season, and spectacular blocks that save quarterback Tyler Shough from pressure! And now, the "blockbuster" reveal: That's Devin Neal, the rookie RB who's turning the Saints into a "youth whirlwind"! The Saints' 2025 draft class is truly a "gold mine," with Neal emphasizing that through his impressive performance. With no timeline for Kamara's return, Neal will continue to be used more – which isn't a bad thing at all, as he's making the most of the opportunity that Miller never got! But the peak? Legendary Drew Brees, the icon of the Saints, has lavished praise on Neal during a Netflix broadcast! Brees emotionally shared: "Devin Neal has shown incredible consistency in his rookie season, and he's proving himself to be an important part of the Saints' future – a true talent that reminds me of the golden days!" Praise from "King" Brees not only elevates Neal but also ignites hope for Saints fans: Could this guy be the "perfect replacement" for Kamara? With his role growing larger, Neal is the shining bright spot, turning opposing defenses into a "joke" and pushing the Saints closer to the playoffs! Don't miss out – the Saints are "transforming" thanks to the new generation, and Neal is the "explosive trigger"! Follow now for the next drama in the 2025 NFL!