The San Francisco 49ers have acquired outside linebacker Khalid Kareem from the Atlanta Falcons' practice squad as they gear up for their Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia. This move addresses the team's need for depth on the defensive line, particularly after defensive lineman Sam Okuayinonu was ruled out due to a foot injury sustained during practice.
Kareem, who is 28 years old, has spent the last two seasons with the Falcons and was previously drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals. The 49ers are also contending with injuries to star edge rusher Nick Bosa, who is recovering from an ACL tear and knee tendinitis, and 2026 third-round pick Romello Height, who is sidelined with an ankle injury.
Currently, Keion White is the only healthy defensive end available for the team.
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 268 pounds, Kareem has played in six games over the last two seasons, accumulating 11 tackles. His career stats include 41 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack. Familiar with the 49ers' system from his time under defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, Kareem's integration into the team's defense may be facilitated by this prior experience.