The NFL offseason is now in full swing and one of the most interesting stories to arise is the seeming choice the San Francisco 49ers have to make on shutting down two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Javon Hargrave before 2025 free agency. The move already sent shockwaves through the league with everyone now speculating on where Hargrave could be headed next. Hargrave will be considered one of the top free agent targets by multiple NFL teams because of his stellar career and college pass-rushing ability to dominate the d-line.
In this article, we’ll take a look at why the 49ers are parting ways with Hargrave, what it means for their defense and where he might land in free agency. From possible destinations to what his departure will mean, we’ll take an in-depth look at what’s next for the two-time Pro Bowler.
Introduction: Currently Being Called the Best Pass Rushing Defensive Tackle in the League
Javon Hargrave has been a major contributor for every team, including his recent team, the 49ers. Hargrave, a versatile interior defensive lineman, is a dangerous force in both pass rushing and stopping the run. His accolades are a testament to his skill and work ethic:
- Pro Bowl Selections: 2 (2021, 2022)
- Career Sacks: 34 (as of 2024)
- Tackles for Loss: 63
- Quarterback Hits: 85
- Tackling Ability: A disruptor, but also capable of eating space and filling running lanes.
Hargrave was among the N.F.L.’s most feared defensive tackles due to his ability to get to the quarterback from inside the defensive line. His high motor and nonstop, all-out playstyle were paramount to the 49ers’ defensive success. As a linchpin on the defensive front, Hargrave’s departure creates a void on the 49ers’ roster that will be hard to fill.
Javon Hargrave: Why Did 49ers Release?
This release is unexpected to a lot of people, Javon Hargrave played exceptionally in San Francisco. But there are a few reasons for this move by the 49ers. Here are some key factors:
Salary Cap Management
NFL teams are always navigating the salary cap, and Hargrave’s contract was one of the larger ones on the 49ers books. There is also a cap relief with Hargrave getting released, which can be used for another need or to extend other players on the roster.
Defensive Line Depth
Hargrave is certainly a big name, but the 49ers’ defensive line is loaded with talent. Then again, the 49ers likely have the confidence that they can replicate the defensive excellence that Hargrave brings with the talent they already have on their roster like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.
High Asking Price
Considering his top-tier career and esteem, Hargrave is expected to command a major deal on the open market. It is possible that the 49ers simply couldn’t — or wouldn’t — pay his asking price and still keep the balance that they require elsewhere.
Best Fits For Javon Hargrave In Free Agency
Multiple NFL teams are likely to chase Hargrave now that he’s on the open market. Here are some potential landing spots where Hargrave could find a home going forward:
Philadelphia Eagles: An NFC East Reunion
One of the best potential landing spots for Hargrave could be with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he previously enjoyed success. Hargrave played several seasons with the Eagles before joining the 49ers, and the 49ers’ system would be a familiar one for him to return to.
- Fit: Hargrave’s skill set would fit perfectly with the Eagles’ defensive front, which already features one of the NFL’s best pass-rushing units.
- Team Needs: The Eagles need some help along their interior defensive line to ease the burden off their edge rushers. That would be a great fit for Hargrave.
New York Jets: Adding to a Playoff-Worthy Defense
Quinnen Williams has turned into an All Pro defensive tackle and the New York Jets have come a long way the last few years on this side of the ball. All of a sudden, sending Hargrave to the Nittany Lions — he’d form a two-headed monster on the interior of the line with Fletcher Cox, improving, possibly exponentially, their prowess for both sacking opposing quarterbacks as well as stuffing the run.
- Fit: Hargrave’s interior pass-rushing would mesh beautifully with Williams’ dominant play on the edge.
- Team Needs: The Jets are a team on the upswing, and they need to strengthen their defense for a serious playoff run. Hargrave would be a major piece in their defensive puzzle.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Back to His Roots
Javon Hargrave began his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and a return to Pittsburgh would be justifiable from a strategic and sentimental standpoint. The Steelers’ defense has been a cornerstone of their identity and Hargrave could assist the team in reinstating the force in their interior defensive line.
- Fit: Hargrave is already aware of the Steelers’ defensive schemes and would be able to make an immediate contribution.
- Team Needs: Upgrade on the defensive line to improve ability to rush the passer (38 sacks last season) and stop the run (2,275 yards allowed). With a skill set that is in line with what the Raiders need, Hargrave is a perfect fit with his familiarity with the system.
AFC West: A New Task for the Las Vegas Raiders
Las Vegas has been rebuilding its defense the past few years and is still searching for a centerpiece on the interior defensive line. Hargrave could fit that and step in as one of the league’s elite defensive tackles immediately.
- Fit: Hargrave would provide leadership and anchor the Raiders’ defensive line while adding more pressure on quarterbacks.
- Team Needs: The Raiders have had issues both stopping the run and getting after the quarterback, and adding Hargrave could shift the direction of their defense.
Kansas City Chiefs: Enriching the Defensive Front
The Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning Super Bowl champions, have spent the last few seasons finding ways to improve their defense. Their offense is top tier in the league and adding a player like Hargrave would only solidify them up top.
- Fit: Hargrave would join Chris Jones on the interior defensive line and make the Chiefs’ pass rush even more dangerous.
- Team Needs: In spite of the Chiefs’ elite offense, they must continue to fortify their defense to keep pace in the AFC. Hargrave could be an integral part of their Super Bowl dreams.
What Hargrave Will Bring To His New Team
No matter where Hargrave goes, he’ll be an immediate difference maker. He’ll make plays in both the pass game and the run game, and he’ll lead the defensive line in a way that no one but him can do. Here’s a closer look at how Hargrave would fit his new team:
Enhanced Pass Rush
Hargrave’s ability to collapse the pocket from the inside will annoy opposing quarterbacks. His presence will especially benefit teams with elite edge rushers, who will benefit as they get more freedom with the offensive line focusing more on Campbell.
Run Defense
Hargrave is also recognized for his run-stopping capabilities. His physicality and technique in the trenches make him a fearsome opponent against running backs at the line of scrimmage. Teams that could use help on run defense would receive a strong boost with Hargrave in the fold.
Leadership
Off the field, Hargrave’s ability to lead and experience matter. He would be a great presence in the locker room for teams with young defensive units. His mentoring of younger players and the way he conducts himself on and off the field — those are underrated aspects of his game.
Final Thoughts on Javon Hargrave’s NFL Future
The end of one chapter, the opening of the next: After the 49ers cut Javon Hargrave. That’ll be a prized possession for someone looking to add one of the most talented defensive tackles in football, and Hargrave should get a big-money deal with a team that buzzes when he’s on the field. The teams listed above — Eagles, Jets, Steelers, Raiders and Chiefs — are all excellent candidates to land Hargrave, but I am sure there will be other suitors, too.
The move will impact all of the NFL’s defensive units, and it will be fun to see where Hargrave goes. Wherever Hargrave lands, he will be a difference-maker at the line of scrimmage, and he will have a successful career in the NFL.
FAQs
Teams Most Likely To Sign Javon Hargrave
Given those two things, the Philadelphia Eagles,
