The 49ers have released veteran fullback Kyle Juszczyk after eight seasons. What’s next for the Pro Bowler as he eyes the 2025 NFL season?


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San Francisco, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers have officially informed veteran fullback Kyle Juszczyk of his release after eight successful seasons with the team. The decision, confirmed on Monday night, signals a new chapter for both Juszczyk and the franchise.

End of an Era in San Francisco

Juszczyk, 33, had hinted at an uncertain future following the team's season-ending loss to the Arizona Cardinals. His concerns have now become reality as the 49ers opt to move forward without him. Despite the setback, Juszczyk remains determined to continue playing in the 2025 season.

“I know I’m not done,” he stated on January 5. “I’ve seen zero regression in my game, and I have no plans of stopping.”

Salary Cap and Contract Considerations

Juszczyk was set to count $6.49 million against the 49ers’ 2025 salary cap, with void years extending through 2028. His release will save the team $2.93 million this year while resulting in an immediate dead money charge of $3.57 million. Last offseason, Juszczyk had accepted a pay cut to stay with the team, but no such agreement was reached this time around.

A Decorated Career in San Francisco

Since signing with the 49ers in 2017 under head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, Juszczyk has been a key part of the team's offensive strategy. His contributions include:

Pro Bowl selections: 8 consecutive appearances

All-Pro honors: First-team in 2023, second-team in 2024

Career stats with the 49ers: 212 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns, 184 receptions, 1,895 receiving yards, and 13 receiving touchdowns

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Future Plans and a Desire for a Championship

At the NFL scouting combine in February, Lynch hinted at a potential transition for Juszczyk, a notion that gained traction when the team signed tight end Luke Farrell to a three-year deal worth up to $20.3 million. Farrell is expected to take on some of Juszczyk’s blocking responsibilities.

Juszczyk also falls just short of joining the 49ers' exclusive 10-year club, which recognizes players who have played a decade with the franchise. The last inductee was Joe Staley in 2017.

Despite the disappointment, Juszczyk remains focused on his ultimate goal: winning a Super Bowl. Having come close twice with the 49ers, he remains open to new opportunities.

What’s Next for Juszczyk?

With multiple teams likely in need of a versatile fullback, Juszczyk’s free agency will be one to watch. As he searches for his next opportunity, his experience, leadership, and skill set will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset for a contender in 2025.

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