Fan-favorite returns to San Francisco after brief free agency, solidifying his place in the team’s future plans.
The San Francisco 49ers are welcoming back nine-time Pro Bowl fullback Kyle Juszczyk with a two-year, $8 million contract, following his unexpected release earlier this month. The deal confirms Juszczyk’s loyalty to the 49ers, as he accepted less money than the Pittsburgh Steelers offered to return to the Bay Area and remain within head coach Kyle Shanahan’s dynamic offense.
Last week, the 49ers made headlines when they released Juszczyk, which surprised many fans and analysts alike. His release, announced on March 11, was part of the team’s strategy to shave more than $2.9 million off their salary cap. Juszczyk was set to make a $4.1 million base salary for the 2025 season, along with a $6.5 million cap figure attached to the final year of his five-year contract.
Juszczyk’s career has been nothing short of remarkable since he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens out of Harvard in 2013. After spending four seasons with the Ravens, he joined the 49ers, where he quickly made his mark as not only a proficient fullback but as a versatile offensive weapon. Over the last eight years with San Francisco, Juszczyk has recorded 2,107 scrimmage yards and 18 touchdowns.
Last season, he logged notable stats, with 19 receptions for 200 yards and two touchdowns, alongside 26 rushing yards and another touchdown on the ground. His ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game has made him indispensable. His continued performance led to his ninth consecutive Pro Bowl selection, marking him as one of the most durable and effective players at his position.
Though the 49ers considered significant roster changes, there was overwhelming sentiment among teammates and fans for Juszczyk to remain. His leadership, especially during this transitional phase for the franchise, has been invaluable. Tight end George Kittle expressed the bond he shares with Juszczyk, lamenting the initial loss and highlighting the impact Juszczyk has on team morale.
Coming off his recent release, Juszczyk had also entertained talks with the Steelers. The allure of returning to San Francisco and contributing to Shanahan’s innovative offensive schemes appears to have outweighed the financial incentive of joining Pittsburgh. Adam Schefter of ESPN reported on March 15, 2025, about Juszczyk opting to return to the 49ers, reinforcing how much his presence is valued by the organization.
What makes Juszczyk stand out even more is his effectiveness as both a blocker and receiver. Throughout his time with the 49ers, he has accumulated 184 receptions totaling 1,895 yards with 13 receiving touchdowns. His versatility allows him to be utilized anywhere on the field, which is something Shanahan particularly appreciates as he looks to reshape the offense for the new season.
This development aligns with the 49ers’ broader strategy as they navigate what many are calling a rebuilding phase after last year’s disappointing 6-11 record. The return of Juszczyk is seen as both stabilizing and affirming the team’s ethos—having seasoned leadership as they integrate younger players, such as Dominick Puni and Ricky Pearsall.
General manager John Lynch indicated the importance of retaining veteran players with experience who know the system, underscoring Juszczyk’s role as not just a player, but as someone who can mentor and guide less experienced teammates. “Essentially, if this is Shanahan 2.0, then we still need players who understood what Shanahan 1.0 was all about to teach the next generation,” Lynch stated.
Meanwhile, quarterback Brock Purdy is likely to breathe easier knowing he retains one of his prime offensive weapons. The fullback’s presence will certainly provide comfort as the team explores negotiations for Purdy’s contract extension. Winning over the locker room is also significant, especially following the departures of other key veterans like Dre Greenlaw, Leonard Floyd, and Deebo Samuel.
Despite opinions being divided on whether the team is creatively rebuilding or simply rearranging the pieces, having Juszczyk back adds authenticity to the 49ers’ direction. The nostalgia surrounding his return harkens back to past successful eras under the franchise’s storied history, echoing sentiments expressed about stabilizing leadership and fostering positive locker room dynamics.
Overall, Juszczyk’s re-signing highlights the balance between performance and team culture—a reminder of how much he is appreciated by both the coaching staff and fellow players. Moving forward, fans and analysts alike will be keeping close tabs on how Juszczyk’s role evolves within the 49ers’ offense as they aim for renewed success.