SANTA CLARA, Calif. — On Tuesday, the San Francisco 49ers parted ways with defensive end Leonard Floyd, a notable decision in their series of roster adjustments following the past season. Despite Floyd’s performance as a productive pass rusher, the team decided to release him after one season.
The 49ers have already undergone significant changes to their roster, losing several starters from the previous season due to free agency, trades, and releases. General Manager John Lynch had previously mentioned at the scouting combine that the team aimed to get both younger and more cost-efficient after a challenging 6-11 season that was marred by injuries.
At age 32, Floyd contributed 8 1/2 sacks, ranking second on the team while participating in all 17 games. However, his run defense posed concerns, and Pro Football Focus rated his pass rush win rate among the lowest for the team. Consequently, San Francisco plans to restructure its defensive line, as defensive tackle Javon Hargrave is set to be released at the beginning of the new league year, and the team looks to part ways with Maliek Collins through either release or trade.
Additionally, the 49ers released nine-time Pro Bowl fullback Kyle Juszczyk and have arranged a trade to send prominent receiver Deebo Samuel to Washington. On Monday, several essential players entered into agreements through free agency. Defensive standouts Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga will join Denver, cornerback Charvarius Ward is headed to Indianapolis, while backup tackle Jaylon Moore and running back Elijah Mitchell are expected to join Kansas City. Backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs has decided on New England as his next destination.
These deals were confirmed by sources familiar with the discussions, though formal signatures can’t be made until Wednesday. Additionally, starting left guard Aaron Banks is reportedly negotiating with Green Bay.
San Francisco responded to Hufanga’s departure by securing a one-year agreement with safety Richie Grant. Grant, originally drafted by Atlanta in 2021, started 33 games for the Falcons. Last season, he primarily played in backup roles and on special teams. With the 49ers, he will provide depth behind Malik Mustapha and Ji’Ayir Brown.
Moreover, the Niners have agreed on a one-year contract with special teams ace Luke Gifford from Tennessee, according to sources. Gifford’s 10 solo special teams tackles led the NFL last season and he should bolster a unit that previously ranked near the NFL’s lower end.
In free agency, the 49ers secured another addition by striking a three-year deal with tight end Luke Farrell, potentially worth up to $20.25 million, as revealed by sources. This contract is set to be finalized Wednesday.
Additionally, the 49ers reaffirmed their commitment to defensive lineman Kevin Givens with a one-year extension and applied a second-round tender of $5.3 million for the 2025 season on running back Jordan Mason.
