SF 49ers roster cuts: 5 key takeaways making 53-man roster

With the SF 49ers finally forming their initial 53 man roster for 2020, Niner Noise explores some key takeaways for head coach Kyle Shanahan and Co.

There may be some minor tweaks and changes, but the SF 49ers‘ 53-man roster is mostly set after finalizing their league-mandated roster cuts that needed to be in place by 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 5.

As expected, the Niners didn’t make too many shocking cuts. After all, head coach Kyle Shanahan’s squad didn’t have too many spots open heading into 2020. Many of the third-string additions brought in during the offseason and training camp were competing for perhaps five or six spots on the roster by Week 1. Others are still looking at potential adds to the practice squad.

One of the notable players waived early on Saturday was wide receiver Jauan Jennings, who despite his promise as a tackle-breaking machine, never showcased the athleticism and prowess during training camp.

With him now slated to go through waivers, it’ll be interesting to see whether or not San Francisco wants to keep him around on the practice squad.

In another provocative move, ESPN’s Field Yates reported the SF 49ers restructured EDGE Dee Ford’s contract in a move creating $9.5 million in additional salary. While that doesn’t automatically mean anything immediately, it certainly will make the possibility of extending one of a number of pending free agents on the team’s roster much easier.

Perhaps left tackle Trent Williams.

But that’s not an impact on the 53-man roster, though. Instead, Niner Noise takes a deeper look at some of the key cuts and keeps, breaking down what they mean for Shanahan and the Niners as they prepare for Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals just over a week away.

Note: For a full roster cut-down tracker, be sure to check out our friends over at 49ers Webzone.