© Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
The 49ers reportedly waived running back Joe Williams, San Francisco’s fourth-round pick in 2017, Friday, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported.
The #49ers are waiving RB Joe Williams, source said. Fourth-round pick last year. Kyle Shanahan was a big fan coming out. Injuries have been an issue, but he is healthy now.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 31, 2018
Kyle Shanahan was adamant about drafting the Utah product in last year’s draft. The 49ers head coach got his wish, but Williams had attitude issues and struggled to stay at playing weight in his first year. He spent his entire rookie season on the injured reserve with an ankle injury.
Williams entered his sophomore year with a renewed sense of urgency. He lost 10 pounds, slimming down to his desired playing weight at 205 pounds. He put together a solid training camp, but he struggled to find running room in the first three preseason games, compiling 19 rushes for 45 yards altogether.
To make matters worse, Williams suffered a fractured rib in the third preseason game. Meanwhile, recently acquired running back Alfred Morris stepped in and rushed for 84 yards on 17 carries in his first preseason action of 2018 last Saturday, all but leading to Williams’ release.
The 49ers could theoretically stash Williams on the practice squad if another team does not pick him up. For now, though, it appears the Williams experiment has concluded.
Chris Jones also waived
Shanahan indicated that he will use Friday to waive the players he and the coaching staff are sure they will cut. Shortly after the 49ers released Williams, they also reportedly waived defensive lineman Chris Jones, NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco reported.
League source: #49ers release DL Chris Jones.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) August 31, 2018
All roster cuts have to be made prior to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1.