NFL free agency always leaves behind a few surprising names.
But even after months of roster moves, minicamps, and offseason signings across the league, it’s still shocking to see several former San Francisco 49ers players without a team heading into the summer.
Especially considering some of them played meaningful snaps not long ago.
Now that veteran receiver Jauan Jennings has officially landed with the Minnesota Vikings, attention has quickly shifted toward the remaining former 49ers still sitting in free agency — and a few of these names are genuinely surprising.
Yetur Gross-Matos Still Hasn’t Found A Home
When the 49ers originally brought in Yetur Gross-Matos, the expectation was that he could become a valuable rotational pass rusher inside one of the league’s deepest defensive fronts.
Instead, injuries constantly interrupted his time in San Francisco.
His production never truly matched the physical upside the organization hoped for, and one of his most memorable moments unfortunately came during a missed opportunity against Seattle late last season that could have changed the outcome of the game.
Now, with the 49ers adding even more young defensive line talent, a reunion feels extremely unlikely.
Still, for a player with his athletic profile, it’s surprising nobody has taken a chance yet.
Kevin Givens Quietly Remains Available
For years, Kevin Givens was one of those under-the-radar players every good NFL roster needs.
Reliable. Tough. Productive in limited snaps.
The former undrafted defensive lineman spent multiple seasons carving out a role in San Francisco’s rotation, but injuries over the last two years appear to have slowed his market significantly.
Even so, it’s hard to believe there isn’t a defensive line-needy team willing to bring in a veteran with real game experience.
Trent Taylor’s NFL Journey Continues
Back during the early years of the Kyle Shanahan era, Trent Taylor looked like he could become a long-term answer in the slot for San Francisco.
Then came the injuries.
Since then, Taylor has bounced around the league trying to regain momentum before eventually returning to the 49ers as a depth option.
At this point in his career, teams likely view him more as a reliable veteran presence than a major offensive contributor. But considering how many franchises search for experienced slot depth every offseason, his continued free-agent status still stands out.
Could Thomas Morstead Be Done?
Veteran punter Thomas Morstead actually performed fairly well for San Francisco last season.
But the 49ers decided to move in another direction after signing Corliss Waitman, leaving the longtime special teams veteran back on the market.
At 40 years old, retirement is becoming a very real possibility.
Still, experienced specialists tend to receive calls once injuries hit during training camp, so Morstead’s NFL story may not be over just yet.
Eric Kendricks Deserves Another Shot
Out of every player on this list, Eric Kendricks might be the most surprising unsigned name.
The veteran linebacker joined San Francisco late last season after injuries devastated the defense, and he immediately brought stability and leadership to the unit.
He even delivered some impressive moments during the playoffs against Philadelphia.
But with the 49ers suddenly overloaded at linebacker, there simply may not be room for a reunion.
That said, it’s difficult to imagine a veteran with Kendricks’ experience remaining unsigned forever.
The 49ers Have Clearly Moved Forward
At this stage of the offseason, San Francisco appears focused on turning the page toward a younger roster built around new draft picks and fresh depth pieces.
That reality has likely closed the door on several former contributors returning.
But across the NFL, roster situations change quickly.
Injuries happen. Depth disappears. Contenders get desperate.
And when that happens, don’t be surprised if some of these former 49ers suddenly receive calls again.