Similar to many fans, I was thrilled when the San Francisco 49ers acquired defensive lineman Javon Hargrave last year, despite the high cost. Hargrave seemed like an improvement for the defensive line, even though he wasn’t considered a top-tier run stopper. However, his performance in 2023 fell short of expectations given his hefty $84 million contract. While he didn’t play poorly enough to be benched or cut, it was still considered a subpar year for Hargrave. Opinions on his performance varied among fans, with some expressing disappointment on social media.
Hargrave topped a list of worst free agent signings in the NFL for 2023 by SI.com, with his underwhelming performance highlighted alongside his massive contract. Despite his dominant previous season with the Philadelphia Eagles, Hargrave failed to meet the 49ers’ expectations. The team’s defensive line struggled overall, impacting Hargrave’s effectiveness on the field.
On a lighter note, former 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo also made the list after leaving for the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency, showcasing the unpredictable nature of player performances in the NFL. While Hargrave had a challenging first year with the 49ers, he still has time to redeem himself in the remaining years of his contract. With a new defensive coordinator in place, there is hope for improvement in his performance moving forward.
