49ers to release Carlos Rogers, per Josina Anderson

NFL free agency opens in less than 24 hours, and we have some word on the status of cornerback Carlos Rogers. ESPN's Josina Anderson is reporting a source said Rogers is going to be released, "allowing him to test the market." If this report proves true, the 49ers cap savings will depend on if they give him a June 1 designation. Whatever the case, they'd be looking at between $14 million and $15 million in total cap space after such a release. Once the move becomes closer to official, I imagine we'll find out if it's a June 1 designation or not. Even as a June 1 designation, Rogers would become a free agent immediately.

The 49ers did not need to rush on a move with Rogers, but if they were going to release him, it's only fair to let the veteran have time to test the market. If they took their time, he could have been left hanging without enough opportunities. Now, he joins in the market with the rest of the cornerbacks. He's provided some great service to the 49ers the last three seasons, but as the team's highest cap figure in 2014, this move is not unexpected.

We'll keep an eye on this, but with the extra cap room, the 49ers could choose to be more aggressive with some of their own free agents (Donte Whitner, Tarell Brown, Phil Dawson). Of course, it also opens room for contract extensions to future free agents, and provides potential roll-over space down the road. There are a lot of options to consider. And of course, the other big question is how the team addresses the cornerback position. If they are unable to sign Tarell Brown to a new deal, the depth chart will be a little skimp with Tramaine Brock and Chris Culliver as the starters, and Darryl Morris as the primary backup. It's safe to say the team will look into some options in the draft.