The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers, who had high hopes of winning Super Bowl LVIII. Following the acquisition of quarterback Brock Purdy, the 49ers made their first appearance in the Super Bowl final, only to be denied by what has become known as the “Kirk Cousins Curse.”
Despite this setback, the 49ers remain determined and are actively seeking to strengthen their team for the upcoming season. In their latest roster move, the 49ers have added former Arizona Cardinals player Ezekuel Turner.
Ezekiel Turner to signs with the 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers strengthened their roster by inking a one-year deal worth $1.3 million with Ezekiel Turner, a standout on special teams. This deal was confirmed by Aaron Wilson and the agents representing Turner, Ray Haija and Zeke Sandhu.
Turner’s exceptional special team abilities and impressive performances in his two starts last season caught the attention of multiple teams. By adding this signing to their roster, the 49ers are further strengthening their special teams and making the necessary changes to their lineup.
Following their second Super Bowl appearance under head coach Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers faced setbacks, including a controversial decision in overtime. Despite this, Shanahan swiftly made changes, parting ways with defensive coordinator Steve Wilks and appointing Nick Sorsen as the new DC.
The 49ers have made some strategic signings in their pursuit of veteran talent, such as re-signing linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles to a one-year deal. In addition, they made a trade with the Texans to bring in defensive lineman Maliek Collins. They also secured the services of defensive linemen Jordan Elliott and Yetur Gross-Matos with two-year contracts.
Ezekiel Turner’s NFL career so far
Ezekiel Turner entered the league as an undrafted free agent from Washington in 2018 under the wings of the Cardinals. Since then, his prowess has saved the Cardinals’ face in many games.
Last season, the vet player made his presence felt with the Cardinals, recording 20 tackles in 16 game appearances, including one start. One of his notable moments came when he blocked a punt against the San Francisco 49ers’ punter, Mitch Wishnowsky, in the first quarter of a game.
Throughout his career, he has consistently proven himself to be a dependable performer, even though his main focus has been on special teams. Turner was given a restricted free agent tender by the Cardinals in 2021, and they subsequently re-signed him to a one-year contract. They kept him on board with additional contracts in 2022 and 2023, recognizing his worth.
The 27-year-old played a significant number of special teams snaps in both 2022 and 2023, totaling 328 and 345 snaps, respectively, per the 49ers Webzone. He has amassed 83 tackles, including three for a loss, in his 80 game appearances over six NFL seasons, all with the Cardinals, despite his limited action on defense.
Turner will continue his career in the NFC West, staying within the division as he joins the 49ers. With his track record of making impactful plays on special teams, the former Cardinals player is expected to play a similar role for the 49ers in the upcoming season.
