San Francisco acquired Collins, 29, in a trade with the Houston Texans last year, sending a seventh-round draft pick in exchange. In his lone season with San Francisco, Collins recorded 33 tackles (five for a loss), 12 quarterback hits, and five sacks over 17 starts, playing 67 percent of the defensive snaps, per Pro Football Reference.
San Francisco's defense struggled in the run game last season, earning a 54.6 run defense grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked 28th in the NFL. The unit allowed 124.6 rushing yards per game (18th) and gave up 24 rushing touchdowns, the second-most in the league behind only the Dallas Cowboys.
After the season, the team parted ways with defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen and brought back Robert Saleh to replace him.
While Garafolo reports that Collins is being released, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area adds that the move is not yet official, leaving the door open for a potential trade if any teams express interest.
The Cowboys selected Collins (6-2, 310) out of Nebraska in the third round (No. 67 overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft. Over nine seasons in the NFL, he has played 136 games (129 starts) and posted 239 tackles (51 for a loss), 88 quarterback hits, 30.5 sacks, four passes defensed, one interception, and one forced fumble.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers Bye-Week Report Delivers One-Sentence Takes on Every Player
Even with the DeForest Buckner acquisition and trade speculation running rampant, the San Francisco 49ers have officially reached their bye week. Week 7 against Atlanta featured plenty of competition and intensity, but ultimately ended in frustration as four turnovers doomed... -
Report: Jauan Jennings rejected opportunity to return to 49ers in trade with Vikings
A potential reunion between Jauan Jennings and the San Francisco 49ers reportedly fell apart after the veteran wide receiver made it clear he had no interest in returning to the team. According to NFL insider Jay Glazer, the 49ers and Minnesota Vikings had a trade agreement in... -
49ers still searching for help at two positions before trade deadline
The San Francisco 49ers are off to a 6-1 start and sit atop the NFC West standings. Last week, they made a big move, acquiring defensive tackle DeForest Buckner from the Indianapolis Colts. They may not be done making trades. The 49ers weren't the only team to make a major... -
49ers may discuss kicker situation after struggles
Saying kicker Eddy Piñeiro is struggling in his second season with the San Francisco 49ers would be an understatement. Entering Week 7's matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, the veteran had already missed three field goals and three extra points. Piñeiro missed...