Tom Pelissero dropped the news: the San Francisco 49ers are cutting veteran defensive tackle Naquan Jones. This isn’t just a random roster move, buddy, it’s about creating a spot, and all signs point to it being for a familiar face to bolster that wide receiver room.
DT Depth Chart Shifts: Thompson Back, Jones Out
So, why the defensive tackle move? It looks like it is all about getting James Thompson back on the field after his injury. The Niners have been rolling with Osa Odighizuwa, Sebastian Valdez, Gracen Halton, and Thompson, plus Keion White gets a bunch of snaps at defensive tackle. Losing Jones makes sense when you’ve got those guys healthy and contributing. It’s a reflection of trusting the players they have and making room for someone else they desperately need.
Christian Kirk’s Return and the X-Receiver Void
Now, for the really juicy part. Shanahan basically spilled the beans after Week 6, saying Christian Kirk, who has been on injured reserve, was a “possibility for next week.” Kirk had two good practices in, his first two of the year, and the team was down on wideouts. They gave him another week then, but now, with Jones gone, they can activate Kirk ahead of Wednesday’s practice without having to make another move. This is huge for them, especially with Mike Evans dealing with Achilles soreness. It’s not a long-term thing for Evans, which is good for them, but the Niners would be smart to give him two weeks to recover. Without Evans, they just don’t have a true X receiver on the field. Kirk, that guy brings a veteran presence and he can win at multiple levels.
Their snap counts against the Commanders at wide receiver tell the story: Jordan Watkins played 47 snaps, Brandin Cooks got 31, Mike Evans 24, Jacob Cowing 15, and Malik Turner just 3. Watkins had to own that “X” role for at least a week, but you know that’s not their ideal plan.
With Jones out and Kirk potentially back, the Niners’ depth chart shifts big time on both sides of the ball. Shanahan’s got more options for that X receiver spot, especially with Evans needing time. It’ll be interesting to see how they roll out the wideouts next week and if Kirk can actually hit the field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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