Santa Clara, CA – The San Francisco 49ers sent shockwaves through the NFL on Friday by officially releasing defensive end Drake Jackson, their top pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, as the team’s rookie minicamp kicked off. Jackson, who missed the last one-and-a-half seasons due to a patellar tendon injury in his left knee, was waived with a failed physical designation. The move marks the end of the 24-year-old’s attempt to return to the Super Bowl-contending franchise.
Drake Jackson’s Brief Tenure with the 49ers
Selected in the second round (61st overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft, Drake Jackson was once seen as a cornerstone for the 49ers’ defensive line, particularly as a complement to star Nick Bosa. With an ideal frame (6-4, 273 lbs), agility, and technical skill, Jackson made an impact in his rookie season, recording three sacks across 15 games. His career highlight came in the 2023 season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he notched three sacks in a single game. However, that performance proved to be the pinnacle of his time with the 49ers.
Following that standout game, Jackson failed to record another sack in the remaining seven games of the 2023 season before undergoing surgery for his patellar tendon injury. He subsequently missed the entire 2024 season while on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Despite recently expressing confidence on Instagram, stating, “Anyone who thinks I can’t wreak havoc on the field this year is crazy,” Jackson’s persistent injury and the team’s new additions led to the 49ers’ decision to part ways. According to ESPN, Jackson is still recovering but is expected to be ready to play by the start of summer training camps.
Restructuring the Defensive Line
The decision to release Jackson is part of a broader effort to restructure the 49ers’ defensive line, particularly at the defensive end position. Two weeks ago, the team used their highest pick in the 2025 NFL Draft (11th overall) to select Mykel Williams, a promising defensive end from Georgia, who is projected to start opposite Nick Bosa. Additionally, last season, the 49ers signed Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos to compensate for Jackson’s absence, though Floyd was also released in March during a significant roster overhaul. Sam Okuayinonu has also emerged as a reliable backup option.
Cutting Jackson not only reflects a tactical shift but also underscores the shortcomings of the 49ers’ 2022 draft class. Apart from quarterback Brock Purdy, a last-round pick who became an unexpected star, other selections from that year, including Tyrion Davis-Price, Danny Gray, and Jackson himself, have all departed the team. Currently, only Purdy, Spencer Burford, Nick Zakelj, and Kalia Davis remain from that draft class, with Purdy being the only guaranteed starter for the 2025 season.
Adding Three Experienced Veterans
On the same day they parted ways with Jackson, the 49ers announced one-year contracts with three veterans: offensive linemen Andre Dillard and Nicholas Petit-Frere, and cornerback Dallis Flowers. These moves aim to bolster roster depth, particularly at key positions, as the new season approaches.
Andre Dillard: Standing at 6-5 and weighing 315 lbs, Dillard was a first-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2019 NFL Draft. He has appeared in 69 career games, starting 19, for the Eagles (2019-2022), Tennessee Titans (2023), and Green Bay Packers (2024). Dillard is expected to compete for a backup tackle role alongside D.J. Humphries, supporting starters Trent Williams and Colton McKivitz.
Nicholas Petit-Frere: Also an offensive lineman, Petit-Frere was a third-round pick by the Tennessee Titans. He will bring versatility and experience to strengthen the 49ers’ offensive line, which needs additional depth to protect quarterback Brock Purdy.
Dallis Flowers: A cornerback, Flowers is expected to enhance the 49ers’ secondary. He will compete for a roster spot among other defensive backs.
In addition, the 49ers waived offensive lineman Jalen McKenzie and cornerback Tre Tomlinson (with an injury designation). These changes reflect the team’s proactive approach to refining the roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
Releasing Drake Jackson was a tough but necessary decision for the 49ers as they aim to rebuild their defensive line and reclaim their status as championship contenders. With the addition of Mykel Williams and experienced veterans, the 49ers are banking on a blend of youth and experience to improve their performance, particularly after a turbulent 2024 season. Meanwhile, Jackson, still brimming with potential, may find a new opportunity elsewhere if he fully recovers from his injury.
With these bold roster moves, 49ers fans are eager to see whether the team can leverage its new additions to make a significant impact in the 2025 season.