SANTA CLARA, Calif. — In a series of strategic changes, the San Francisco 49ers parted ways with defensive end Leonard Floyd on Tuesday, signaling a significant shift in their roster after just one year with the team. This decision is a part of a broader restructuring effort as the Niners work to rejuvenate their lineup following a 6-11 season marked by various injuries. General Manager John Lynch had previously emphasized the need to inject youth and affordability into the team.
The 49ers have experienced a considerable exodus of players due to free-agent departures, trades, and releases. Floyd’s release comes despite his commendable performance of 8.5 sacks over 17 games. However, concerns about his run defense capabilities and subpar pass-rush win rates, as highlighted by Pro Football Focus, influenced the decision.
Additionally, San Francisco is set to revamp nearly its entire starting defensive line from last season. Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave will also be released with the new league year, and the team is expected to part ways with Maliek Collins through a release or trade by Wednesday.
The roster overhaul extends beyond the defensive lineup. On Monday, the team informed nine-time Pro Bowl fullback Kyle Juszczyk of his impending release. Moreover, they’ve agreed to a trade deal involving star receiver Deebo Samuel, sending him to Washington. Several other integral players have reached free agency agreements: Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga with Denver, Charvarius Ward with Indianapolis, Jaylon Moore and Elijah Mitchell with Kansas City, and Joshua Dobbs headed to New England.
Negotiations and agreements are proceeding with confidentiality, with finalizations expected once the free agency window opens. Additionally, starting left guard Aaron Banks is reportedly moving to Green Bay.
To compensate for Hufanga’s departure, the 49ers have secured depth at safety by agreeing to a one-year contract with Richie Grant. Grant, originally a second-round pick by Atlanta in 2021, spent significant time as a backup and special teams player. He is likely to back up starters Malik Mustapha and Ji’Ayir Brown.
San Francisco is also enhancing its offensive roster, agreeing to a three-year contract worth up to $20.25 million with backup tight end Luke Farrell. These strategic adjustments reflect the 49ers’ commitment to building a more sustainable and robust team moving forward.
