David Lombardi of The Athletic relays that Odum's performance in training camp is earning him a bigger role in the 49ers' defense, and the 30-year-old is currently listed as the starting strong safety on San Francisco's depth chart. Since joining San Francisco in 2022, Odum has been used primarily on special teams, playing just 37 snaps on defense in each of the last two seasons. However, with strong safety Talanoa Hufanga still recovering from a torn ACL and not expected to be back until mid-August, Odum has taken advantage of his increased reps with the first-team defense, recording a handful of interceptions in training camp. Head coach Kyle Shanahan said he wants to Odum on the field more, noting last week that "we're going to try and find a way to put [Odum] on both [defense and special teams]."
Unlock the latest San Francisco 49ers news — direct to your inbox.
Status
ACTIVELatest George Odum news
Career History
It's the offseason! 😎
Check back next season for fresh
AI-powered projections.
Can't wait for more data?
Join dfsPro Daily for free
AI-powered Fantasy Picks
Year-Round.
David Lombardi of The Athletic relays that Odum's performance in training camp is earning him a bigger role in the 49ers' defense, and the 30-year-old is currently listed as the starting strong safety on San Francisco's depth chart. Since joining San Francisco in 2022, Odum has been used primarily on special teams, playing just 37 snaps on defense in each of the last two seasons. However, with strong safety Talanoa Hufanga still recovering from a torn ACL and not expected to be back until mid-August, Odum has taken advantage of his increased reps with the first-team defense, recording a handful of interceptions in training camp. Head coach Kyle Shanahan said he wants to Odum on the field more, noting last week that "we're going to try and find a way to put [Odum] on both [defense and special teams]."
Odum is set to sign a two-year contract extension, which could be worth up to $10 million, with the 49ers, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports. Odum had one year left on his three-year contract signed in 2022, but he'll now be slated to stay in San Fransisco for at least the next three seasons. The 30-year-old has been a standout on special teams, earning All-Pro honors in 2020, and should continue in that role in 2024.
As expected, Odum will have to miss at least San Francisco's next four games as he recovers from a torn biceps he sustained Thursday at Seattle. In a corresponding move, rookie fifth-round defensive lineman Robert Beal was activated from the injured reserve list.
The extent of Odum's injury was confirmed by an MRI on Friday after he exited Thursday's win. Odum has an outside chance to return during the postseason, but the standout special teams contributor is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season.