The 49ers released DL Naquan Jones to clear a roster spot for LB Dre Greenlaw’s return from suspension.
The San Francisco 49ers released defensive lineman Naquan Jones. The team announced the move on Tuesday, coming off a 23-17 win over the Washington Commanders on Monday night.
Jones’ departure allows the 49ers to return linebacker Dre Greenlaw to their 53-man roster, whose one-game suspension has been served. Jones joined San Francisco in September after spending time with the Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Chargers, Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings. The 28-year-old has appeared in three games for the 49ers this season, recording two tackles in 45 defensive snaps.
His release also follows the return of defensive tackle James Thompson Jr., who missed time after suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 2. Thompson returned to action against the Commanders, leaving Jones inactive as San Francisco used Osa Odighizuwa, Sebastian Valdez, Gracen Halton and Thompson as its primary interior defensive linemen. Keion White also contributes snaps at defensive tackle.
Jones appeared in 63 games over his six NFL seasons, including eight starts. Throughout his career, he accumulated 104 tackles, 6.5 sacks and five pass breakups.
Meanwhile, the 49ers still have a roster decision coming up. Wide receiver Christian Kirk’s 21-day practice window opened last week as he worked to return from injured reserve after missing the season with a calf injury. San Francisco will need to create another roster spot before activating him.
Kirk’s potential return comes as the 49ers deal with Mike Evans’ Achilles injury. Without Evans, Jordan Watkins could continue to handle the team’s primary X receiver responsibilities, playing 47 snaps on Monday night, compared to 31 for Brandin Cooks and 24 for Evans.
The San Francisco 49ers released defensive lineman Naquan Jones. The team announced the move on Tuesday, coming off a 23-17 win over the Washington Commanders on Monday night. Jones’ departure allows the 49ers to return linebacker Dre Greenlaw to their 53-man roster, whose one-game suspension has been served.