SANTA CLARA, Calif. — As the San Francisco 49ers finalize their roster to 53 players on Tuesday, several significant decisions have been made that hint at the team's early strategy for the season. Among the most notable moves was the waiving of promising rookie defensive tackle Sebastian Valdez, alongside the release of their punter and the retention of only two healthy wide receivers. These changes strongly suggest that the current roster is merely a preliminary draft, with potential adjustments expected in the coming days.
Veteran punter Thomas Morstead, who shared a cryptic post on X, stating “R-E-L-A-X” shortly after being cut, is anticipated to re-sign with the team as early as Wednesday. This move aligns with the 49ers' plans to bolster their roster, especially as they begin assembling a practice squad and addressing areas of need. Potential practice squad candidates include Valdez, receiver Russell Gage, tight end Brayden Willis, and linebacker Curtis Robinson. Should Gage land on the practice squad, he could be elevated to the active roster for early-season games.
The 49ers currently face a challenging situation at the wide receiver position. With Demarcus Robinson suspended for three games and Brandon Aiyuk starting the season on the physically unable to perform list, only Ricky Pearsall and newly acquired Skyy Moore are healthy enough to play. This limited roster could impact the team’s offensive strategy as they prepare for the upcoming games.
Here's a detailed look at how every position is shaping up after the initial cuts:
Offensive Lineup (25 Players)Quarterback (2):Cut: Carter Bradley, Tanner Mordecai
NFI: Kurtis Rourke
Both Bradley and Mordecai were waived due to ankle injuries sustained in the preseason finale. The 49ers have been uncertain about their third quarterback option and may explore the transaction wire for a suitable candidate.
Running Backs (5):Christian McCaffrey, Isaac Guerendo, Brian Robinson, Jordan James, Kyle Juszczyk (fullback)
Cut: Jeff Wilson Jr., Ke'Shawn Vaughn
The 49ers have retained their top three tailbacks, indicating a solid lineup heading into the season.
Wide Receivers (5):Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, Skyy Moore, Jordan Watkins, Jacob Cowing
PUP: Brandon Aiyuk
Suspended: Demarcus Robinson
Several notable cuts were made, including Gage and others, indicating the competitive nature of the position.
Tight Ends (3):George Kittle, Luke Farrell, Jake Tonges
Cut: Brayden Willis
Tonges secured the No. 3 spot, while Willis faces another challenging season.
Offensive Line (10):Trent Williams, Ben Bartch, Jake Brendel, Dominick Puni, Colton McKivitz, Connor Colby, Spencer Burford, Austen Pleasants, Matt Hennessy, Drew Moss
Cut: Nick Zakelj, Isaiah Prince, Drake Nugent, Michael Dunn
Zakelj's cut was unexpected, as he has been with the team since 2022. The 49ers have opted to keep two rookies, Colby and Moss, who are seen as future prospects.
Defensive Lineup (26 Players)Defensive Line (11):Mykel Williams, Jordan Elliott, Kalia Davis, Nick Bosa, Bryce Huff, CJ West, Alfred Collins, Evan Anderson, Sam Okuayinonu, Yetur Gross-Matos, Robert Beal Jr.
IR (designated for return): Kevin Givens
Cut: Sebastian Valdez, Jonathan Garvin, Jaylon Allen, Bruce Hector, William Bradley-King, Shakel Brown
Valdez's cut came as a surprise, given his strong performance during the preseason.
Linebackers (5):Fred Warner, Dee Winters, Nick Martin, Tatum Bethune, Luke Gifford
Cut: Curtis Robinson, Chazz Surratt, Jalen Graham, Stone Blanton
The decision to cut Robinson and Surratt reflects the team's strategy emphasizing special teams.
Cornerbacks (5):Deommodore Lenoir, Renardo Green, Darrell Luter Jr., Upton Stout, Chase Lucas
Cut: Dallis Flowers, Fabian Moreau
IR: Jakob Robinson
Flowers' cut was unexpected, considering his prior contributions.
Safeties (5):Jason Pinnock, Ji’Ayir Brown, Marques Sigle, Siran Neal, Richie Grant
Cut: Derrick Canteen, Jaylen Mahoney
PUP: Malik Mustapha
Neal is valued for his versatility, enhancing the defensive depth.
Special Teams (2):
PK: Jake Moody, LS: Jon Weeks
Cut: P Thomas Morstead
The 49ers appear to have strategic plans for their special teams, with Morstead expected to return shortly.
Overall, the San Francisco 49ers' roster decisions reflect a strategic approach as they prepare for the upcoming season. With significant cuts and moves, the team is poised to make necessary adjustments as they seek to strengthen their roster and enhance their chances for success.
