SANTA CLARA, Calif. — As the free agency period unfolded, the San Francisco 49ers were primarily focused on the departures of their key players. The team did, however, bolster their roster slightly by signing backup tight end Luke Farrell and re-signing two reserve players. Nonetheless, the offseason was marked by the absence of several important contributors who played a critical role in the 49ers’ Super Bowl campaign just over a year ago.
San Francisco’s decision to release veteran fullback Kyle Juszczyk marked a significant move. Known for his pivotal role since joining the team under head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch in 2017, Juszczyk’s release was communicated to him in advance of the league year commencing on Wednesday. ESPN was the first to report on this development. Despite his continued value due to his capability to multitask in various formations, the 33-year-old was slated for a $4.1 million salary for the upcoming season. His release incurs a $3.6 million dead cap charge, as the 49ers aim to reshape their roster with younger and more budget-friendly talent.
In an active free agency period, standout defenders Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga secured deals with the Denver Broncos, and star cornerback Charvarius Ward reached an agreement with the Indianapolis Colts. Meanwhile, Jaylon Moore and Elijah Mitchell agreed to terms with Kansas City, and backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs departed for New England. Reports also indicate that starting left guard Aaron Banks is headed to Green Bay. These transactions will remain unofficial until Wednesday.
The 49ers are also preparing to release defensive tackle Javon Hargrave later in the week and may part ways with Maliek Collins if a suitable trade is not arranged. Moreover, a trade sending receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders is expected to become official soon. As a result of these substantial changes, over half of the players who logged at least 275 snaps during the 2023 regular season and playoffs will not return to the San Francisco roster.
Despite the focus on departures, the team made a modest addition by agreeing to a three-year contract valued at up to $20.25 million, with $11 million guaranteed for Luke Farrell. Although Farrell had only 36 receptions across four seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, he provides solid blocking skills and special teams support behind starting tight end George Kittle. Since the loss of Charlie Woerner to Atlanta in free agency last offseason, the Niners have been on the lookout for a reliable blocking tight end. Additionally, the 49ers have retained defensive lineman Kevin Givens and running back Patrick Taylor Jr. on one-year contracts.
