On Tuesday, the San Francisco 49ers announced the release of safety Antoine Bethea. Interestingly enough, it was Bethea who requested to be released from the team.

"I asked for my release," Bethea told Josina Anderson of ESPN. "I think it was a better fit for both parties. I want to take some time to explore my options."


The 49ers issued the following statement from general manager John Lynch following Bethea's release:

"Antoine is a true professional in every sense and I have a great deal of respect for the way he has gone about his business throughout his career. We would like to thank him for the positive impact he has had on this team both as a player and as a leader, on and off the field. We wish Antoine, and his family, great success in the future."

Bethea joined the 49ers in March of 2014. During his three seasons with the team, Bethea had 318 tackles, five interceptions, 15 passes defended, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.