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The San Francisco 49ers have released defensive lineman Naquan Jones. The team announced the move Tuesday, coming off a 23-17 win over the Washington Commanders on Monday night.
Jones’ departure allows the 49ers to bring linebacker Dre Greenlawback to their 53-man roster, whose one-game suspension has ended. Jones joined San Francisco in September after previously spending time with the Tennessee Titans, Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Chargers, Houston Texans and Minnesota Vikings. The 28-year-old appeared in three games for the 49ers this season, recording two tackles across 45 defensive snaps.
His release also follows the return of defensive tackle James Thompson Jr., who missed time after suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 2. Thompson returned to action against the Commanders, leaving Jones inactive as San Francisco used Osa Odighizuwa, Sebastian Valdez, Gracen Halton and Thompson as its primary interior defensive linemen. Keion White also contributes snaps at defensive tackle.
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Jones has appeared in 63 games throughout his six NFL seasons, including eight starts. Throughout his career, he has compiled 104 tackles, 6.5 sacks and five pass breakups.
Meanwhile, the 49ers still have another roster decision approaching. Wide receiver Christian Kirk’s 21-day practice window opened last week as he works toward returning from injured reserve after missing the season with a calf injury. San Francisco will need to create another roster spot before activating him.
Kirk’s potential return comes as the 49ers manage Mike Evans’ Achilles soreness. Without Evans, Jordan Watkins could continue handling the team’s primary X receiver responsibilities, having played 47 snaps on Monday night, compared with 31 for Brandin Cooks and 24 for Evans.
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