Jalen Graham

Career StatsD-

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		15	10	—	—
2025		3	1	0.0	0
2024		8	8	0.0	0
2023		4

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

This signing grades out as a significant overpay for the San Francisco 49ers — the team is paying more than the on-field production currently warrants. Jalen's on-field performance ranks in the bottom quartile among NFL LBs, grading him as an unproven at the position. His $1.1M average annual value ranks as bargain money for the LB market. The concern here is the gap between production and cost — unproven output at bargain money means the team is paying a premium above the player's on-field value. Jalen is squarely in his prime, which adds to the deal's upside — the team should get multiple productive seasons out of this contract.

Performance Analysis

Jalen Graham grades as a depth piece among NFL linebackers — a below-average player at the position. His strongest area is tackling at 0.33 (below the NFL average of 3.80), ranking as among the lowest in the league for the position. Limited games played (15 career) reduces confidence in this grade.

Fan Sentiment

A routine practice squad elevation with minimal fantasy or depth impact for San Francisco. Multiple headlines confirm Graham was repeatedly elevated for special teams purposes, not defensive contributions. The key signal is clear: Graham is a special teams specialist, not a linebacker the 49ers trust defensively. Fans barely noticed, with discussion centered on the 49ers' injury-depleted linebacker corps rather than Graham himself. Expect Graham to remain a practice squad fixture, elevated only when special teams depth is needed.