The San Francisco 49ers must trim their roster to 53 players by 4:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, so we predict what the final group will look like.
The San Francisco 49ers have already announced 12 roster cuts as they trim the roster down to 53 players for the regular season.
Aldrick Robinson and Joe Williams were among those to be released by San Francisco, with the team also trading for tackle Shon Coleman.
Here we make a final roster projection for the 49ers as Saturday’s 4:00 p.m. ET deadline approaches.
Quarterback, running back and wide receiver
QB: Jimmy Garoppolo, C.J. Beathard
No surprises over the top two at quarterback, though Kyle Shanahan can’t have been impressed with the spotty play produced by Beathard during the preseason. There was never likely to be a backup quarterback controversy this year, but it will be interesting to see how Shanahan reacts this time next year if Beathard is again outplayed by Nick Mullens.
RB: Jerick McKinnon, Matt Breida, Alfred Morris, Raheem Mostert, Kyle Juszczyk
Morris’ 84-yard showing in the penultimate preseason game effectively secured his place on the team, with Joe Williams paying the price for a poor preseason as the 49ers announced his release on Friday.
It would appear to be between Mostert and Jeremy McNichols should the 49ers choose to carry a fourth running back, with the former’s special teams experience likely to settle matters in his favor.
WR: Pierre Garcon, Marquise Goodwin, Trent Taylor, Dante Pettis, Kendrick Bourne, Richie James
Aldrick Robinson was the biggest name cut on Friday, his 49ers career brought to an end because of the influx of young talent at the position.
Richie James’ excellent preseason both on offense and special teams makes him an impossible player to cut. He should thrive in Shanahan’s system with his ability to play in space and, while there is not a true No. 1 among this group, there is great youth, depth and versatility.