In a shocking move, the San Francisco 49ers will cut fullback Kyle Juszczyk who now becomes a free agent for the second time in his career. According to the breaking news, it’s very surprising the 49ers will release the long-time veteran after spending the majority of his career with the 49ers. However, it was always on their radar this offseason and now the team will free up just under $3 million in salary cap with his release. Originally selected in the fourth round of the 2013 NFL Draft, the former Harvard product began his career with the Baltimore Ravens by being one of the first fullbacks coming out of that college.
Juszczyk entered training camp fighting for a starting spot with veteran Vonta Leach and eventually took over duties after Leach’s release the following season in 2014. However, Juszczyk had his moments earning a Pro Bowl with the Ravens but later lost him as he was the top fullback on the market years ago. The veteran became a mainstay of the 49ers making each season a Pro Bowl one and earning first- and second-team All-Pro Honors in 2023 and 2024. He’s in the same position this offseason as there aren’t a lot of fullbacks available in the market other than Patrick Richard, Michael Burton and Reggie Gilliam.
Breaking: 49ers Cut Nine-Time Pro Bowl Veteran Kyle Juszczyk – Who Will Take a Chance?
Possible Next Teams
Baltimore Ravens
This could be the best destination for the veteran if he lands in Baltimore only if they don’t bring back Patrick Richard. The Ravens saw some positives out of Richard but if they’ve seen enough, they could sign Juszczyk. He could help quarterback Lamar Jackson in the pocket as another body to be a protector in play-action passes.
Dallas Cowboys
As of this posting, the Dallas Cowboys have yet to find the next possible wide receiver to pair with CeeDee Lamb. Hunter Luepke had his moments this past 2024 campaign as a go-to receiver in pressure situations. Perhaps, Luepke and Juszczyk could pair if the Cowboys have a new scheme under head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
Los Angeles Chargers
This destination makes too much sense for Juszczyk as quarterback Justin Herbert needs a new pass-catcher. After losing Joshua Palmer in free agency, the team should be in the market for wideout. Juszczyk won’t go for more than 500 receiving yards but he could be an efficient chain-mover for the Chargers since most of their plays will come from runs and play-action passes.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders have been checking off every box on their offense after trading for Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel this offseason. However, the running back room could be better even though they have Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. under contract. Despite that, they could use another body in the run game like Juszczyk to help open the holes to make life easier for both of these backs.
Kansas City Chiefs
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes loves throwing the football in short distances. He fares well finding the short-term target in the aerial attack from Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy or Travis Kelce. With that, the Chiefs could get that out of Juszczyk in special plays.