The 49ers’ late-preseason linebacker swap with the Saints has ended the way it looked like it might: as a short-term move, not a lasting addition.
San Francisco is releasing linebacker Deion Jones, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported. Jones came over from New Orleans in exchange for running back Zamir White, and White is now being released by the Saints as well.
That trade drew some attention because it seemed like it could lead to something more for both sides. White had familiarity with 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, which fueled the idea that he might stick around in some capacity with San Francisco’s banged-up linebacker group. On the other side, the Saints had a need for a back to handle preseason carries, while the 49ers were looking for extra linebacker help to get through the final stretch of exhibition play.
In the end, that’s all it was: a roster-filler deal for the preseason finale. Both players appeared in the teams’ final preseason games, and that was the finish line.
Jones could still circle back to San Francisco through the practice squad, depending on how the rest of the roster settles. He’s no longer in his prime, but he does know Morris’ defense and spent last season contributing on special teams in Tampa Bay. For the 49ers, that could make him a useful depth piece to keep around.
As a result of his release, Jones becomes an unrestricted free agent and can choose his next landing spot.
In his only game with San Francisco, against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday, Jones played 15 snaps and finished with two tackles and a pass breakup.
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