As NFL teams begin evaluating their rosters ahead of the 2026 offseason, The Athletic asked its staff to identify potential salary-cap cut candidates for each franchise. For the San Francisco 49ers, beat writer Matt Barrows pointed to two names worth monitoring.
Barrows highlighted one offensive player and one defensive player: defensive end Bryce Huff and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson.
Bryce Huff could be a financial decision
Huff could become expendable if the 49ers add pass-rush help in free agency or through the 2026 NFL Draft. He is scheduled to earn a hefty salary in 2026, a significant figure for a team that must carefully manage its salary cap now that it's paying big money to quarterback Brock Purdy.
"Huff and Robinson fall into the same category: 2025 acquisitions who didn't live up to expectations," Barrows wrote. "Huff, who's due to earn $17 million, finished with just four sacks and none after Week 7."
That production fell well short of what the 49ers envisioned. Huff posted 10 sacks with the New York Jets in 2023, flashing the ability to pressure quarterbacks consistently. After a disappointing stint with the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco traded for him, hoping he could recapture that form.
Demarcus Robinson's production dip
Robinson, meanwhile, was expected to provide veteran stability in Kyle Shanahan's offense. He had an opportunity amid injuries to multiple 49ers pass catchers. Instead, his impact was minimal.
"Robinson, meanwhile, had ample opportunities for a major role in the passing attack due to all the injuries to 49ers pass catchers, but ended up with just 276 receiving yards, seventh best on the team," Barrows noted.
Robinson's 276 receiving yards were his lowest total since 2021, and his lone touchdown was his fewest since 2017. The drop-off was notable considering he was coming off a 2024 season with the Los Angeles Rams in which he posted career highs of 505 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.
Not a simple decision for the 49ers
Despite underwhelming 2025 campaigns, both players occupy positions of need for the 49ers. Moving on from either would require a clear replacement plan.
"Both play positions of need for the 49ers, meaning that despite their underwhelming 2025 campaigns, they could be back," Barrows added. "It's possible the team approaches Huff about restructuring his contract."
Ultimately, the 49ers will need to evaluate their depth at both positions and determine whether upgrades are available or if they must work something out to keep Huff and Robinson on the roster in 2026.
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