Darnell Dockett to sign with 49ers

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After 11 years with the Arizona Cardinals, defensive lineman Darnell Dockett decided to join his former team’s rival and stay in the NFC West. Arizona released Docket after they couldn’t agree on a salary cut. Since then Dockett has been in talks with San Francisco and has finalized a deal today.

Dockett will sign a two-year, $7.5 million contract with the 49ers, with $4 million being paid in the first season and $2 million guaranteed, as told by ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Dockett, who will turn 34 in May, missed all of last season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament and has mentioned that his rehab for the injury is ahead of schedule. He passed the 49ers’ physical.

Arizona has now lost Dockett and possibly Dan Williams, who is an unrestricted free agent as of now. A defensive line that was once very threatening may be a problem this upcoming season for Arizona.

As for San Francisco, they have been trying to bolster their D-Line for years, especially after the injury-riddled season they had last year. They also released DE Ray McDonald a few months ago. In the 2014 season, San Francisco ranked 21st in sacks and sack yards and 19th in 2013 (Per Sporting Charts).

The three-time Pro Bowler will add much needed depth to an already strong defensive line. This year Aldon Smith will likely play the whole season. There is also the possibility of a return from Justin Smith if he doesn’t decide to retire.

Dockett finished his 11 year stint with the Cardinals with 459 tackles, 40.5 sacks, 12 fumble recoveries, four interceptions, and seven forced fumbles; Arizona drafted him in the third round of the 2004 NFL Draft.