TE Brock Wright has accepted a restricted free agent offer from the 49ers, giving the Lions a five-day window to decide whether to match it.
The Detroit Lions may soon require a new tight end.
Brock Wright, the Lions’ tight end, agreed to a three-year, $12 million restricted free agent deal with the San Francisco 49ers on Friday.
Back in early March, the Lions offered Wright an original-round tender worth $2.985 million as a restricted free agent. This tender allows them five days to match any offer Wright receives from another team. Since Wright entered the league as an undrafted free agent, the Lions wouldn’t receive draft pick compensation if he decides to leave.
Over the past three seasons, Wright has played a crucial role in the Lions’ running game, primarily as a tight end focused on blocking. Last season, he started four games and secured 13 receptions for 91 yards, scoring two touchdowns before sustaining a forearm injury during the Lions’ divisional round playoff victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Although the Lions have Sam LaPorta as their primary tight end, with James Mitchell as backup and re-signed exclusive rights free agent Shane Zylstra this offseason, they may seek another blocking option for the position if they opt not to match the 49ers’ offer.
Despite defeating the Lions in the NFC championship game in January, the 49ers are now faced with the departure of backup tight end Charlie Woerner to the Atlanta Falcons in free agency. However, they maintain the services of All-Pro tight end George Kittle.
