Last week, the San Francisco 49ers made one of the more shocking moves in the early stages of free agency, releasing fan-favorite fullback Kyle Juszczyk.
Even though the 49ers were making massive roster changes, no one expected the team to part ways with the nine-time Pro Bowler. However, despite interest from another team, the two sides were to get a deal done.
The 49ers re-signed the 33-year-old fullback to a two-year, $8 million deal. As for the other team interested in Juszcyk’s services, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the veteran took less than the Pittsburgh Steelers offered to rejoin the Niners.
Schefter also reported that the 49ers and the veteran fullback almost parted ways last offseason before Juszczyk agreed to a pay cut. It would’ve been interesting to see how the Steelers would have used the nine-time Pro Bowler given that the fullback is not a huge part of their offense.
Thankfully, 49ers fans do not have to consider that possibility. The 33-year-old will stay with the team until 2027 when he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Last season, Juszczyk produced 19 receptions (31 targets) for 200 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 26 yards on the ground and a touchdown. The veteran was named to his ninth consecutive Pro Bowl and second All-Pro team (second-team).
Juszczyk has played the last eight years with the 49ers after signing as a free agent in 2017. The Pro Bowl fullback spent four years with the Baltimore Ravens to begin his NFL career.
Over his last eight years with the 49ers, the veteran fullback has recorded 2,107 scrimmage yards and 18 touchdowns.
Heading into this upcoming season, San Fran will look for Juszczyk to play an integral role in Kyle Shanahan’s offense, whether in the passing game as a receiver or a run blocker for star running back Christian McCaffrey.