49ers release DE Cassius Marsh, who says goodbye via Twitter

The San Francisco 49ers have parted ways with defensive end Cassius Marsh, who posted a goodbye tweet on Friday.

Marsh shared the following via Twitter.

"Thank you to the San Francisco 49ers organization, especially John Lynch and Coach Shannohan for believing In me and giving me a home even if it has been short lived. I loved my time in San Jose and time I spent with my teammates and coaches last season. Sad to part ways but business is business. I promise you I will be better than I ever have been. I also want to make sure I thank the 49er faithful for embracing me and supporting me and my family. Good luck and goodbye."

The 49ers announced the move, along with the re-signings of linebacker Mark Nzeocha and safety Antone Exum, minutes later.

The team had exercised the 2019 contract option for Marsh on March 7 after re-signing him to a two-year deal last year, which makes the move at least a bit of a surprise to some, especially after head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in him last year.

"You've got to be pretty good to beat out Marsh," Shanahan said while explaining why the 49ers avoided any pass rushing upgrades in 2018. That was not the case this year. San Francisco traded for Kansas City Chiefs pass rusher Dee Ford on Tuesday with the deal becoming official on Wednesday.

The Seattle Seahawks made Marsh a fourth-round selection out of UCLA in 2014. He registered 38 combined tackles and 5.5 sacks through 16 games and three starts with the 49ers in 2018. Marsh has recorded 123 combined tackles, 11.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles through his five NFL seasons. He also spent part of a season with the New England Patriots.