San Francisco 49ers sign OL Zachary Thomas

Zachary Thomas's signing with San Francisco earns a C+ Contract Value Index (CVI)—a measured verdict that reflects modest value in a low-cost, depth-oriented addition. At $1.145M on a one-year deal, this is a replacement-level investment that carries minimal cap burden and zero long-term commitment, the kind of move contending teams make to add roster flexibility without structural risk. The salary sits squarely in veteran minimum territory, suggesting Thomas is expected to fill a reserve or situational role on the offensive line rather than anchor a position group. For a 49ers team sitting at 12-5 and still competing in a tight NFC playoff race, this transaction prioritizes organizational insurance over star power—a rational offseason hedge that doesn't move the needle on cap position but adds depth where it's needed. The C+ reflects that this deal is neither a steal nor a misstep: it's fair value for a below-average starter or journeyman depth piece, the kind of low-risk signing that rarely determines playoff outcomes but occasionally saves a season when injury strikes.