The San Francisco 49ers are clearing space on the roster, and the first domino is veteran defensive tackle Naquan Jones.
The move was reported by The Ringer’s Tom Pelissero, who said the 49ers are releasing Jones in order to open up a roster spot, though he did not identify the specific player the team is making room for.
That opening lines up with Dre Greenlaw’s return. His suspension is now over, and the NFL officially lifted it, putting him back in line to rejoin the roster.
There’s also a decision looming with wide receiver Christian Kirk. After Week 6, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said:
“Yeah, he’s a possibility for next week. He had two good practices in.
It was just his first two practices of the year. We were down on wideouts, so it was still something we discussed, but we decided to give it another week.”
If the 49ers activate Kirk from the injured reserve, they’ll need another corresponding roster move.
The receiver situation is especially tricky because Mike Evans is dealing with Achilles soreness. The injury is not viewed as long-term, but the 49ers would be smart to give him two weeks before pushing him back into action.
Until then, San Francisco does not have a true X receiver. Kirk gives them a veteran option who can work at multiple levels, but for at least a week, Watkins will have to handle that X role.
Jones’ exit also fits with the return of James Thompson from injury. San Francisco has been rolling with Osa Odighizuwa, Sebastian Valdez, Gracen Halton, and Thompson up front, while Keion White has been taking a healthy number of snaps at defensive tackle as well.
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