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49ers Cut Notable Defensive Lineman Before Offseason Workouts

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated May 9, 2025 4:13 PM ET

The San Francisco 49ers aren't afraid to move on from prospects they drafted fairly high. Just ask former No. 3 overall pick Trey Lance.

With OTAs around the corner, the 49ers have decided to make a considerable change to their defensive line. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the front office in San Francisco has elected to waive Drake Jackson with a failed physical designation.

"49ers are waiving former second-round pick Drake Jackson with a failed physical designation, per source," Schefter said. "Jackson is still rehabbing a knee injury but is expected to be cleared by the start of training camp."

The 49ers selected Jackson with the 61st pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was a three-time All-Pac-12 player at USC, racking up 103 tackles, 12.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

In his first two seasons with the 49ers, Jackson had 21 tackles, nine QB hits and six sacks. Unfortunately for the USC product, his third year ended before it even hit the ground.

In August 2024, the 49ers placed Jackson on the reserve/PUP list due to a patellar tendon injury.

The 49ers have a proven difference-maker at pass rusher in Nick Bosa. What they lack is a co-star opposite of him.

It's possible the 49ers found their next star defensive lineman in Mykel Williams. After all, they did use the 11th pick in this year's draft on him.

Outside of Williams, the 49ers will also lean on defensive linemen Alfred Collins, Jordan Elliott, Kevin Givens, Yetur Gross-Matos and CJ West.

The 49ers will begin their OTA workouts on May 27.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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