Notre Dame Standout Jalen Stroman Signs With San Francisco 49ers After NFL Draft

Defensive back Jalen Stroman, a standout from Notre Dame's football program, has signed with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft.

Stroman made his mark at Notre Dame as a versatile defensive back, demonstrating the kind of athleticism and football IQ that NFL scouts look for in secondary players. Despite going undrafted, his signing with the 49ers represents a significant opportunity to compete for a roster spot in one of the league's more competitive defensive backfields.

The 49ers have been active in reshaping their roster through both the draft and free agency, and adding a player of Stroman's caliber as a free agent signing represents solid value. Undrafted free agents have a long history of making NFL rosters and even becoming stars — players like Kurt Warner, Tony Romo, and Wes Welker all entered the league through the same path.

For Stroman, the next challenge is making the most of rookie minicamp and training camp, where he will need to prove he belongs among the league's elite. The 49ers' coaching staff will evaluate his coverage skills, tackling ability, and special teams potential as they determine whether he earns a spot on the 53-man roster.

What This Means For You: If you are a Notre Dame fan or a 49ers follower, Stroman's signing is a storyline to watch this offseason. Undrafted free agents often fly under the radar initially but can become valuable contributors. Keep an eye on how he performs during training camp and preseason action.