Jun 11, 2025; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers defensive end Bryce Huff (47) speaks to the media following a team OTA at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images
Bryce Huff shines as 49ers’ secret weapon with game-winning sack showcasing San Francisco’s smart investment
The San Francisco 49ers’ decision to acquire Bryce Huff is already yielding dividends. General manager John Lynch took a calculated risk this offseason by bringing Huff aboard, especially after the defensive end struggled during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles. The 49ers recognized that if Philadelphia couldn’t unlock Huff’s potential, perhaps they could.
Huff’s Impact in Week Two
In their recent matchup against the New Orleans Saints, Huff demonstrated why he was brought to San Francisco. He registered five pressures and delivered a crucial sack that secured the victory for the 49ers. This performance reflects his true identity as a player—a specialist in pressuring quarterbacks. Historically, Huff has struggled in run defense and has primarily filled a rotational role. Nevertheless, his ability to disrupt passing plays was evident this week.
Last season, Huff’s production dipped significantly, finishing with just 2.5 sacks after a promising 2023 where he tallied 10. However, with one sack already in the books through just two weeks, it’s conceivable that he might exceed his production from the previous year. While the 49ers aren’t expecting him to replicate his earlier 10-sack performance, they’re more than satisfied with his current contributions.
A Smart Financial Move
The 49ers acquired Huff for a conditional pick in the 2026 draft, and his cap hit is under $8 million this season, decreasing even further in the next. This arrangement perfectly encapsulates a low-risk, high-reward scenario. San Francisco is paying for a role player, and Huff is exceeding expectations in that capacity.
While it’s clear that Huff didn’t single-handedly clinch the game for the 49ers, his presence on the field was undoubtedly felt. In the previous week, even without a sack, his impact contributed to the team’s defensive success, which included shutting down two game-winning drive attempts from their opponents. The 49ers have effectively utilized a pass-rushing lineup that includes Nick Bosa, Mykel Williams, Yetur Gross-Matos, and, of course, Huff. Each player brings a unique skill set, collectively making it difficult for offenses to find a rhythm.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see how many sacks Huff can accumulate. While he may not reach double digits, a tally of five or six seems entirely reasonable given his current trajectory. Such numbers would certainly justify the 49ers’ investment and further solidify his role within the team.
Bryce Huff’s journey with the 49ers has just begun, but the early returns suggest that Lynch’s gamble is paying off handsomely. As San Francisco continues its campaign, Huff’s contributions could very well be a key element in their pursuit of success.
