With the dawn of the new NFL league year, the San Francisco 49ers face critical roster decisions affecting several veteran players. Notably, they traded wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round pick in the upcoming draft. This move signals a shift in the team's approach to payroll management as they look to recalibrate following a season of high spending.

Veterans like defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and fullback Kyle Juszczyk are under scrutiny. Hargrave, coming off a serious injury, has had his contract restructured, allowing him to enter free agency, though retaining him may be challenging. Meanwhile, Juszczyk, who recently agreed to a pay cut last season, faces similar scrutiny with a steep contract due this year.

Other veterans on the bubble include Yetur Gross-Matos, who, despite his versatility, has missed significant game time due to injuries, and Leonard Floyd, whose performance last season was solid yet could see him released for cap savings. Lastly, George Odum’s role in special teams may also be reconsidered with new leadership in the coaching staff.