The San Francisco 49ers are quietly reshaping the depth of their defense — and their latest move might just prove to be a hidden gem.

Ahead of their first Week 10 practice, the 49ers announced the signing of defensive lineman Andrew Farmer II to their practice squad, parting ways with linebacker Stone Blanton to make room.

Farmer II isn’t a household name yet — but those who’ve watched his grind know his story is about persistence, power, and patience. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 250 pounds, the Jacksonville native spent the last few seasons fighting for his shot in the NFL, bouncing between the Chargers and Broncos, appearing in eight games and recording three tackles.

What makes this move intriguing is not his stats, but his story. Farmer II came out of Lane College, a Division II program, where he turned heads with a monstrous 114 tackles, 44 for loss, and 17.5 sacks in just 18 games. That kind of dominance doesn’t go unnoticed — and San Francisco clearly believes there’s more to unlock.

At just 25, Farmer II fits the mold of what Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch love: a raw, hungry athlete with something to prove. With the 49ers battling through injuries on defense, every addition matters — and this one feels like a smart, forward-looking move.

Meanwhile, the departure of Stone Blanton, who joined the practice squad just two weeks ago, reminds fans of the business side of football. Opportunities are fleeting, and the competition is unforgiving.

Still, the 49ers’ front office continues to show its sharp eye for potential. With a crucial stretch of the season ahead, this might be the kind of depth signing that pays off when least expected.

Because in San Francisco — even the quiet moves echo loudly when they start to make noise on Sundays.