49ers Release Linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles Ahead of Free Agency

The San Francisco 49ers have released veteran linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, providing him an early opportunity to explore free agency ahead of the new league year starting in March. Flannigan-Fowles, who joined the 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2019, has been a reliable contributor on special teams and played in 73 games, making seven starts. His release indicates a potential overhaul of the linebacker position for the 49ers, especially with fellow linebacker Dre Greenlaw also facing free agency. The decision appears to be a favor to Flannigan-Fowles, allowing him to seek opportunities with other teams before the official free agency period begins. Alongside this move, the 49ers retained seven exclusive-rights free agents, indicating a strategy to maintain depth on the roster. As the offseason approaches, the 49ers may look to strengthen their linebacker corps significantly.