Former 49ers backup CB Chase Lucas is headed to the NFC South

HOUSTON, TX - OCTOBER 26: Chase Lucas #26 of the San Francisco 49ers looks on from the sideline during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Last training camp, the San Francisco 49ers' nickel that was the talk of the town was Chase Lucas. Even into the season when rookie Upton Stout had some initial struggles, fans were calling for Lucas to play. Ultimately, in a surprise to nobody, the 49ers knew who the better player was.

When Lucas did play, there was a clear drop-off from him to Stout. Let's just say there was a reason Lucas hadn't played any meaningful snaps since 2022. Here's a stat that explains why the 49ers let Lucas walk in free agency. Lucas missed ten missed tackles last season. On the surface, that's a modest number. But when you factor in opportunities, that comes to a 76.9% missed-tackle percentage. Wow.

Lucas signed a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Like Cam Sample and the 49ers, it's a depth signing for Tampa Bay.

Lucas was supportive of his teammates in the Bay Area. If you check his Twitter timeline, it's mostly him sharing highlights of the 49ers' last season.

The 49ers elected to go with Nate Hobbs as their swing" defensive back. The difference between Lucas and Hobbs is that Hobbs can play outside in a pinch. Athletically, Hobbs has the advantage, which should show up on special teams if he plays on those units.