The 49ers wide receiver battle ended with free agent signee Jordan Matthews on the outside looking in. NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo reported the team is planning to release Matthews as part of the cut down to 53 players.
This is a pretty steep departure from what head coach Kyle Shanahan said in the lead up to the final preseason game when he heaped praise on the veteran receiver in the midst of a tight battle for roster spots.
Matthews was a consistent presence throughout the offseason with good size and versatility. He was looking to bounce back from a couple of down years after three strong seasons to start his career.
His release should allow both Richie James and Kendrick Bourne to make the roster if the team does plan to keep seven receivers. Bourne was on the wrong side of that competition in our last 53-man projection.
