The San Francisco 49ers are facing significant salary cap challenges as they prepare for the 2025 NFL offseason. With $46.1 million in projected cap space, according to Spotrac, the team will need to make tough roster decisions to remain competitive while managing financial constraints.
Among the top candidates for cap casualties, Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department identifies wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and edge rushers Yetur Gross-Matos and Leonard Floyd.
Yetur Gross-Matos: Rotational Piece or Roster Casualty?
Edge rusher Yetur Gross-Matos, a former second-round pick, delivered solid rotational contributions for the 49ers last season. He appeared in 54% of the team’s defensive snaps and registered four sacks, though three came in a single game against the Chicago Bears. Despite potential upside under defensive line coach Kris Kocurek, financial considerations may overshadow his future.
Releasing Gross-Matos would free up $3 million in cap space—a modest but useful amount for a team navigating tight finances. Given his production, the 49ers may seek a cheaper replacement in the draft, signaling the possible end of Gross-Matos’ time in San Francisco.
Deebo Samuel: A Star at a Crossroads
Deebo Samuel, one of the 49ers’ most dynamic offensive weapons in recent years, finds himself at a pivotal point with the franchise. The 29-year-old wide receiver has remained productive, but the financial impact of Brandon Aiyuk’s recent contract extension raises questions about Samuel’s future.
Despite General Manager John Lynch stating Samuel will remain with the team in 2025, a trade could allow the 49ers to gain assets while easing cap pressures. A post-June 1 trade or release would save $5.2 million, but with quarterback Brock Purdy nearing an extension, the team may favor acquiring compensation via trade. However, rival teams might prefer to wait for a release, weakening San Francisco’s trade leverage.
Leonard Floyd: Experience vs. Financial Relief
Veteran pass rusher Leonard Floyd is another key figure in the 49ers’ cap considerations. Floyd, who posted 8.5 sacks last season—second only to Nick Bosa—has been a valuable defensive contributor. However, at 32 years old with a $10.1 million cap hit, he is a strong candidate for a post-June 1 release.
Cutting Floyd before June 1 would save just $1.5 million, while waiting until after June 1 would free up $8 million—enough to cover the rookie class or provide flexibility during the season. Moving on from Floyd would mark a shift toward younger talent, potentially signaling a partial rebuild of the defensive front.
The 49ers’ Cap Situation
The decisions surrounding Gross-Matos, Floyd, and Samuel will significantly impact the 49ers’ roster. Each player provides value, but balancing cap savings with performance is essential. While the team does not have to cut any of the three, the front office may decide their price is too high if their production regresses. Managing these tough choices will be critical as the 49ers look to reshape their roster and remain competitive heading into 2025.
