Coming off his first season as the Jets’ nickel back, 28-year-old Oliver had a largely solid 2024. With D.J. Reed lost to the Lions in free agency, the Jets would not have wanted to also lose their No. 3, even if Sauce Gardner’s presence makes the entire secondary better. Oliver hasn’t kicked outside much since 2019-20, so he should mostly remain in the middle in 2025.

Oliver was released after the 2023 season by the 49ers, allowing him to agree to a deal prior to the start of the new league year. It was his sole season as a 49er, starting six games and snagging one interception. Oliver also played special teams and did not log a defensive snap during the postseason. Prior to joining the 49ers, Oliver spent five seasons with the Falcons, establishing himself as a nickel corner. He is now expected to join the Jets’ secondary on a one-year contract.

Oliver was signed to a two-year contract by the 49ers last offseason but is gone after one season. The veteran corner tallied 67 tackles and one interception on the year and earned a PFF coverage grade of 70.9. Oliver appeared in all 17 regular season games on defense for the 49ers but saw his snaps slashed after Week 8. He did not log a defense snap in the postseason. His release clears just over $2 million in cap space for the 49ers.

Oliver arrives in San Francisco with experience both on the outside and in the middle. The slot is where he spent 2022, earning strong overall marks from Pro Football Focus, including in coverage. It would seem Oliver will probably compete with second-year pro Samuel Womack for nickel duties, though perhaps he will also spend some time on the outside. Life is easier for corners in San Francisco because of the wreckage done up front by Joey Bosa and company.