Hargrave's release was anticipated. In January, general manager John Lynch confirmed the 49ers planned to cut him with a post-June 1 designation to ease the salary cap impact. While the team remained open to a potential reunion, Lynch recently acknowledged at the NFL Scouting Combine that the defensive tackle market is expected to be strong, making Hargrave's return unlikely.
San Francisco faces growing salary cap constraints, particularly with quarterback Brock Purdy expected to become one of the NFL's highest-paid players. The team has benefitted from Purdy's rookie contract over the past three seasons, but financial flexibility will be reduced once he secures his new deal.
Hargrave's 2024 campaign was cut short by a torn triceps suffered in Week 3. He finished the season with seven tackles (one for loss), a sack, and a quarterback hit in three games.
The move will save the 49ers $2.2 million in cap space this season. The post-June 1 designation will spread Hargrave's $15.3 million dead cap hit over the next two years.
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