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49ers sign 3 players, put 2 on IR, waive another


49ers sign 3 players, put 2 on IR, waive another

The numerous roster changes at the San Francisco 49ers are not yet complete.

On Wednesday afternoon, the team announced three new additions to its 53-man roster. Offensive lineman Ben Bartch, tight end Eric Saubert and cornerback Rock Ya-Sin are all back with the club after being released during Tuesday’s roster reduction.

In three corresponding moves, San Francisco placed CB Ambry Thomas and OL Jon Feliciano on the injured list. They also released defensive end Sam Okuayinonu.

Bartch will provide much-needed depth on the offensive infield with Feliciano on the injured list. Feliciano could miss at least half of the season after undergoing knee surgery in the preseason. It’s unclear if he will return in 2024. Bartch spent part of last season with the 49ers after spending time on the Jaguars’ practice squad.

With Saubert, the 49ers now have three TEs on the roster. He joins George Kittle and Jake Tonges. While Tonges was on the original 53-man roster, it could be the more experienced Saubert who starts as the TE2 when the team takes the field in Week 1. He’s not as good in the passing game as Tonges, but he’s a better blocker, which could earn him playing time early.

We selected Ya-Sin to the initial 53-man roster. He was released but likely knew the 49ers planned to bring him back to fill an open roster spot. Thomas broke his forearm in the first preseason game. A timetable for his return to the 49ers roster is uncertain. Ya-Sin has some experience on special teams, which will likely be his primary role.

Okuayinonu was a surprise addition to the initial 53-man roster. San Francisco may have placed him on waivers because they are confident Yetur Gross-Matos will be healthy enough to play in the opening game. They may also be happy with the internal depth they will have on the practice squad, which is where Okuayinonu could end up if he makes it through waivers.

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