Raiders inside linebacker Malcolm Smith, a former Super Bowl MVP who played a key role in one of the most infamous plays in 49ers’ history, is expected to sign with his former rival after the start of free agency Thursday, the NFL Network reported.
Smith, 27, is familiar with 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. Smith spent his first three seasons in the NFL with Saleh, who was a low-level defensive assistant with the Seahawks from 2011-13.
The 49ers are looking to address an inside linebacker corps that’s currently headlined by NaVorro Bowman and Ray-Ray Armstrong.