Dockett, who is 34, missed all of last season with the Arizona Cardinals before being released in February. The 49ers quickly swooped in and signed the 11-year veteran. Along with WR Torrey Smith, Dockett was one of the team's biggest free offseason signings. They were cautious with him during the offseason, holding him out of their offseason program and limiting him during training camp. Dockett has 40.5 sacks in his 10 NFL seasons.
Earlier this week, Maiocco predicted that the 49ers might part with Dockett despite his $2 million in guaranteed salary.
In another somewhat surprising move, the 49ers released G/C Joe Looney, the last of the team's 2012 draft class. No players from that class remain on the team.
Teams must reach a 53 player roster by 1 PM Pacific on Saturday. The following is a list of players that the 49ers have released or no longer count toward the roster with the latest roster casualties at the bottom.
15 players to go...
Players Released
DT Darnell Dockett
LB Philip Wheeler
G/C Joe Looney
S Craig Dahl
WR Issac Blakeney
OL Patrick Miller
Players Suspended
WR Jerome Simpson
It is important to note Simpson's suspension to start the season, meaning he will not count toward the team's 53-man roster.
On Instagram, Craig Dahl thanked the team and the Niner Faithful.