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Eli Apple Rejoins 49ers as Veteran Depth Option

The signing supplies San Francisco with experienced insurance for its secondary ahead of the 2026 season.

Overview

  • Reports say the 49ers signed Apple to a one-year deal to add depth to their cornerback room.
  • The club views Apple as a reserve option rather than a likely starter and expects him to provide insurance against injuries.
  • Apple previously signed a reserve/futures contract with San Francisco in January, played two games in 2025 and was waived before this re-signing.
  • A former No. 10 overall pick from Ohio State, Apple was a key regular-season contributor for the Bengals’ 2021 Super Bowl team but is also remembered for yielding the game‑winning touchdown to Cooper Kupp.
  • Over a 100‑game career with seven franchises, Apple has shown veteran experience but limited recent playing time, so his roster role will depend on health and camp performance.