On almost a yearly basis, it seemed as if defensive tackle Kevin Givens was just barely hanging onto a roster spot with the San Francisco 49ers.
And, on a yearly basis, he actually hung onto it.
The 28-year-old former undrafted free agent out of Penn State more or less finds himself in the same situation entering 2025: a likable depth option on the roster but someone who's far from guaranteed a spot.
Especially after the Niners spent considerable effort during the offseason wholly revamping their defensive line, which included adding three new draftees to the mix last April: Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins and C.J. West.
Granted, San Francisco re-signed the 6-foot-1, 285-pound nose tackle to a one-year deal this offseason instead of letting him walk, which is a good indication it likes what he has to offer.
But, diving into the numbers, it appears the 49ers want to fully commit to the perennial backup this season despite the fresh faces who have since arrived.
49ers remain committed to Kevin Givens despite roster moves
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh likely had a hand in retaining Givens after returning to the Bay Area following his head-coaching term with the New York Jets. After all, Saleh was instrumental in helping Givens turn into a spot starter back in 2020 amid what was an injury-riddled season for San Francisco.
Beyond that, and only playing in eight games, Givens enjoyed a career-best 3.5-sack campaign in 2024, suggesting he reached a new peak during his sixth year in the league, and perhaps the 49ers want to tap into that one more time.
But the kicker is this: His $2.05 million contract is fully guaranteed, according to Over the Cap.
Barring injury or another unforeseen circumstance, there's no way the Niners would release the long-tenured veteran in advance of Week 1.
As far as Givens' role under Saleh, it's still going to be rotational, at best, especially with West poised to be a long-term 1-technique starter, assuming the rookie develops quickly. While Givens may see early starter's snaps in the interim, West is the key future piece here.
That said, having Givens as a backup has worked out well in previous years.
It'll likely be that case again in 2025.