The San Francisco 49ers made ten roster cuts on Monday, and according to Matt Maiocco, none of the players were claimed off waivers. Maiocco also reported the team did not place any claims.
The 49ers likely had a variety of reasons for releasing different players. On Tuesday, Jim Tomsula spoke specifically about Lawrence Okoye. He made an interesting case for the value of releasing Okoye on Monday instead of with final cuts. He talked about his lack of game film, and teams not having time to go into the nitty-gritty after final cuts. Here is his full comment:
"Well, and quite honestly, with a guy, really, that was a discussion here. And, just to be frank, Lawrence hasn't played a lot of football. So, for somebody to give him an opportunity in fairness to him, they're going to want to, after the 53, you're into game week. So guys, at that point right there, guys that have tape, guys that have played in this league, guys that they can, that people can go back and look at, they're plug-and-play guys. So, when you have a guy in that situation, was my thought, that it gives him a better opportunity. And I will say he has done, what he's done in three years or two and a half years is remarkable."
Tomsula was then asked if Okoye would be under consideration for the practice squad if he cleared waivers. Tomsula said yes, but then clarified that everybody that has been released falls under that consideration.
The 49ers will make final roster cuts either Friday or Saturday can start signing their practice squad on Sunday. I am curious to see if any of these guys end up coming back now, or in the near future after other practice squads are signed. From the ten cuts (listed below), Corey Acosta could make some sense as a stash for next year. Millard and Okoye seem like guys worth giving another chance, but the 49ers obviously have some questions about both.
K Corey Acosta
LB Steve Beauharnais
CB Mylan Hicks
OT Sean Hooey
WR Mario Hull
WR Chuck Jacobs
WR Nigel King
LB Shawn Lemon
FB Trey Millard
DL Lawrence Okoye