5 Players the San Francisco 49ers Should Cut in 2017
By Peter Panacy
No. 1: Linebacker Ahmad Brooks
Veteran linebacker Ahmad Brooks has managed to squeeze by the roster-bubble watch over the past couple of seasons.
But at 32 years old, he’s nowhere close to playing at the Pro Bowl-caliber level we once saw him back in 2013. He’s a situational pass-rusher, at best, right now and offers very little against the run.
Not surprisingly, the 49ers rank dead last against opponents’ rushing attacks this season.
Brooks will hit the final season of a six-year, $40.4 million deal in 2017.
By releasing him, the Niners would have only $848,750 in dead money and $7.8 million in cap savings.
And it would allow San Francisco to pursue a promising edge rusher via the NFL Draft or add one in free agency.
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At this point in his career, Brooks is more of a liability than an asset to the Niners defense. Holding onto him, even for depth purposes, makes zero sense.
Parting ways does.
Next: 10 49ers With a Lot to Prove Down the Stretch
So hand Brooks his walking papers, 49ers. He’s already cashed in on what will likely be his final lucrative contract.