49ers news: Kyle Shanahan won't go to NFL Combine, Laken Tomlinson released and more
- Kyle Shanahan and his coaches won't be at the NFL Combine this year
- Jets plan on releasing former Niners offensive guard
- injured 49ers who are working to return strong in 2024
By Peter Panacy
49ers news: Jets to release veteran OL Laken Tomlinson
Arguably the Niners' biggest offseason need is the offensive line, and it wouldn't be shocking to see John Lynch use at least a couple of draft picks to reinforce this beleaguered group.
Or they could go through free agency.
Another name is going to be added to the mix: soon-to-be former New York Jets left guard Laken Tomlinson.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Jets are releasing the 32-year-old Tomlinson in a cap-saving move:
The #Jets are releasing guard Laken Tomlinson, per source.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 27, 2024
Move saves around $8.1M on the cap.
Incredibly durable player has started 114 straight games.
Tomlinson spent five years with San Francisco, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2021 before signing a free-agent deal with New York the following season.
So, should the 49ers entertain a reunion?
For starters, the Niners are already limited in salary cap space, so even if Tomlinson would be willing to accept a cheaper deal, inking him would have its challenges. Additionally, Tomlinson has been a left guard over his entire NFL career, and San Francisco already has Aaron Banks entrenched there.
Lastly, this year's draft is laden with quality talent for the O-line, meaning the 49ers may prefer to get both younger and cheaper instead of going with an aging veteran.