As the San Francisco 49ers gear up for another offseason, the franchise faces tough decisions about its roster. With playoff aspirations and a tight salary cap, the team may be heading for significant changes. Reports suggest that five players may have already played their final games in a 49ers jersey. Here’s a closer look at who they are and why their futures with the team are in question.
1. Deebo Samuel (Wide Receiver)
Deebo Samuel has been an integral part of the 49ers’ offense, known for his explosive plays and versatility. However, despite a recent contract restructure, questions linger about his long-term role in the team. With the emergence of younger talents like Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing, the front office may consider moving on from Samuel to free up cap space and invest in new talent.
Additionally, Brandon Aiyuk, another standout wide receiver, is recovering from injury and may take on a larger role in the offense moving forward. If the team prioritizes Aiyuk and the development of younger players, Samuel’s future with the 49ers becomes uncertain.
2. Aaron Banks (Offensive Lineman)
Aaron Banks, a second-year offensive guard, has struggled to live up to expectations this season. A knee injury (MCL sprain) has sidelined him for the last two games, further complicating his future with the team. The 49ers’ history of moving on from underperforming linemen—as seen with Laken Tomlinson—suggests that Banks may be on the chopping block. With depth needed on the offensive line, the team could look for more reliable options in free agency or the draft.
3. Charvarius Ward (Cornerback)
Charvarius Ward joined the 49ers with high expectations, but his inconsistent performance this season has raised eyebrows. While Ward has shown flashes of brilliance, his inability to deliver consistently, coupled with the team’s recent extension of Deommodore Lenoir, has put his future in doubt.
Ward’s contract may also be a factor. In a league where cornerbacks are in high demand, the 49ers may decide to trade him or let him walk in free agency, saving cap space and potentially acquiring draft picks in return.
4. Kyle Juszczyk (Fullback)
Kyle Juszczyk has been a cornerstone of the 49ers’ unique offensive schemes, serving as one of the league’s few remaining fullbacks. However, after taking a pay cut to stay with the team last season, his time in San Francisco could be coming to an end.
The 49ers might opt to modernize their offense further, relying less on a traditional fullback and more on versatile players who can fill multiple roles. Juszczyk’s release would also provide some financial relief, making him a potential casualty of the team’s cap management strategy.
5. Arik Armstead (Defensive Lineman)
Arik Armstead has been a defensive stalwart for years, but his hefty contract and declining production may lead the 49ers to part ways. While his leadership and presence on the defensive line have been valuable, the team could save a significant amount of money by releasing or trading him.
With younger defensive linemen waiting for their turn, the 49ers may prioritize building around new talent while reallocating resources to other positions of need.
The Bigger Picture
These potential moves reflect a broader strategy by the 49ers to remain competitive while managing the constraints of the salary cap. The NFL is a business, and tough decisions are often necessary to build a sustainable future.
For fans, these changes may be bittersweet. Losing familiar faces like Samuel, Juszczyk, or Armstead would mark the end of an era, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise. As the offseason unfolds, the 49ers’ front office will undoubtedly face scrutiny for the decisions they make.
What’s Next?
The NFL offseason is always unpredictable, and the 49ers’ roster shake-up will be closely watched. Will Deebo Samuel find himself on a new team? Can Aaron Banks recover from his injury and prove his worth? Will veterans like Kyle Juszczyk and Arik Armstead be replaced by younger, cheaper options?