Niners Nation on Brayden Willis

Willis waived, unclaimed; expected to return to practice squad as fullback depth.

Waived by the 49ers Saturday to make room for long snapper Jon Weeks; went unclaimed on waivers. Willis showed positional versatility during preseason but has as many regular-season receptions since 2023 as a typical undrafted player. Expected to return to practice squad and potentially be elevated for Week 1 against the Rams. Best offensive contribution likely at fullback (15 snaps in preseason), positioning him as backup to Kyle Juszczyk, who is 35 and entering the final year of his contract. Willis's waiver suggests the team views him as a fullback prospect rather than tight end contributor.

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