Eli Apple

Career StatsD+

Year	Team	GP	INT	PD	Tkl
Career		104	6	61	384
2025		2	0	0	1
2024		4	0	1	2
2023		10

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The 49ers struck gold with Eli Apple's $1.3M deal, landing a B+ CVI that represents exceptional value in today's corner market. Apple has established himself as a serviceable starter who can handle No. 2 corner duties, making this contract a significant bargain when replacement-level CBs are routinely commanding $3-4M annually. At 29, he's in his prime years and brings crucial playoff experience from deep runs with Cincinnati, exactly what San Francisco needs for another championship push. The minimal financial commitment creates zero downside risk while providing substantial upside if Apple continues his solid coverage form from recent seasons. This shrewd signing exemplifies how contending teams can maximize their salary cap by identifying undervalued veterans who fit their defensive scheme perfectly.

Performance Analysis

Eli Apple grades as a rotational player among NFL cornerbacks — a middle-of-the-pack player at the position. His strongest area is tackling at 0.50 (below the NFL average of 3.00), ranking as among the lowest in the league for the position. With 104 career games, there is a large sample size backing this grade.

Fan Sentiment

A low-risk, low-reward depth add that ultimately went nowhere fast. Headlines confirm Apple was signed, briefly elevated, then released within two weeks — a damning timeline. The key signal is the swift release: San Francisco saw enough to cut ties almost immediately. Fans are unsurprised given Apple's inconsistent career and reputation as a scheme-dependent corner. The 49ers will look elsewhere for CB depth as their injury concerns continue.