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49ers sign 2 former Packers OL

San Francisco, CA – May 9, 2025 — The San Francisco 49ers added depth to their offensive line on Friday, signing veteran tackles Andre Dillard and Nicholas Petit-Frere following rookie minicamp evaluations.

Dillard, a former first-round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, spent the 2024 season as a reserve lineman with the Green Bay Packers, playing just 13 offensive snaps all year. Despite being a recurring name in trade rumors, no deal materialized. His addition gives San Francisco an experienced, if underutilized, option on the bench.

As for Petit-Frere, fans may recall his rough outing last season with the Tennessee Titans, particularly in a lopsided matchup against the Packers where the Titans allowed eight sacks — a stark contrast to the Packers' average of just 2.3 sacks per game across their other 16 contests. Statistically, Petit-Frere was among the league’s lowest-rated pass blockers in 2024.

Whether these signings significantly elevate the 49ers’ protection unit remains to be seen. However, they add much-needed competition and insurance behind Colton McKivitz (2-year, $4.6M deal) and D.J. Humphries (1-year, $2M), who are expected to compete for the starting right tackle role.

The 49ers’ offensive line depth took hits in free agency with the departures of Aaron Banks (Packers), Jaylon Moore (Chiefs), and Charlie Heck (Buccaneers) — all of whom started games last season. San Francisco didn’t address the offensive line until Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, making these post-draft additions even more critical.

Dillard’s signing also marks a footnote for Green Bay: he was one of just two remaining unrestricted free agents from their 2024 squad. With his departure, only tight end Tyler Davis, currently battling injury concerns, remains unsigned — though cornerback Robert Rochell has since returned to the market after being released by the Kansas City Chiefs.

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Dan Campbell Reveals the Quiet Moment That Defined Detroit’s Future After 44–30 Win
Detroit, Michigan – After the emotional 44–30 victory over the Cowboys, Dan Campbell stepped to the podium with a rare smile tinged with reflection. When asked what makes him believe this team is on the right path, Campbell didn’t immediately mention Goff’s big plays or Jahmyr Gibbs’ three-touchdown explosion. He told a story about a moment that happened days before the game, when no one but he was there to witness it. Campbell said that night he came back to Ford Field late to grab some paperwork. The air was so cold his breath froze, the stadium was almost completely dark, and not a single person from the Lions was still around. But as he walked through the tunnel, the sound of footsteps and a faint ball whistle made him stop in surprise. In the middle of the field, all alone in the empty space, Jahmyr Gibbs was working on footwork and running routes, his jersey soaked with sweat despite the near-freezing temperature. Campbell stood quietly for several minutes, just watching. No cameras. No teammates. No crowd. Gibbs drilled every movement with the precision of someone fighting himself. When Campbell finally walked toward him, Gibbs stopped, breathing hard but still flashing a smile. “Coach, I know I’m good, but good isn’t enough. Detroit needs a stronger version of me, and I have to create that version myself,” Campbell recounted, his voice slow and deliberate. For Campbell, that was the moment everything became clear. A team discovers its future not in flashy TV moments, but in unseen effort when no one is watching. “I’ve seen a lot of talented players, but very few with the spirit Gibbs has. He’s not practicing for fame or highlights. He’s practicing because he wants Detroit to be greater. And that’s what makes a true star,” Campbell affirmed. When the Lions beat the Cowboys 44–30, many called Gibbs the MVP of the game. But for Campbell, the moment that defined Gibbs wasn’t in the three touchdowns — it was in that freezing night when he stayed behind alone to perfect every detail with no one watching. At Ford Field, wins come and go, but that kind of character is what builds empires. And Campbell believes Detroit’s future is being forged right there in those silent nights.