Tatum Bethune

Tatum Bethune, a promising linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers, has begun carving out his niche in the NFL. Born on February 19, 2001, in Miami, Florida, Bethune's journey to professional football is rooted in his early life and high school career at Miami Central Senior High School. His collegiate path at Florida State University, where he honed his skills and showcased his potential, led to his entry into the NFL. Drafted in the seventh round as the 251st overall pick by the 49ers in 2024, Bethune's NFL profile was that of a linebacker with potential to make an immediate impact on special teams and defense. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 299 pounds, his physical attributes complement his playing style, characterized by aggression and a keen sense for the ball. In his rookie season, Bethune's stats began to tell the story of a player finding his footing in the league. During the preseason, he accumulated 20 combined tackles, 8 assists, and 2 tackles for loss over 3 games, indicating his ability to contribute significantly to the team's defensive efforts. He also recorded 1 penalty, costing the team 5 yards, showcasing areas for growth and discipline. Transitioning to the regular season, Bethune appeared in 11 games, starting in one. His defensive contributions included 4 combined tackles and 2 special teams tackles, with a blitz attempt that didn't result in a sack. His role on special teams was highlighted by recovering 2 fumbles, one for the 49ers and another against the opposition, demonstrating his versatility and knack for being in the right place at the right time. Bethune's early career milestones are marked by his adaptation to the professional level and his growing contributions to the 49ers' defense and special teams. While still early in his NFL journey, his development and performance in the 2024 season set the foundation for what could be a promising career in the league.