They may be let go soon.
As Organized Team Activities (OTAs) get underway for the San Francisco 49ers, fans are eager for their first glimpse of the team in pads during the quiet weeks of late May. While the on-field work offers a welcome taste of football, not every player on the roster is approaching the summer with confidence. For a select group, the writing appears to be on the wall.
Despite the optimism surrounding the new season, several veterans and depth pieces find their futures with the organization hanging in the balance. With fresh draft talent and internal competition rising, three players in particular may be entering their final months in scarlet and gold.
Eli Apple
Cornerback Eli Apple was signed last season to provide veteran depth in the secondary. A former first-round pick of the New York Giants, Apple’s career never fully matched the lofty expectations set at the outset of his NFL journey. He has carved out a respectable career as a reliable journeyman, but has largely functioned as a backup who sees limited snaps when the starters remain healthy.
The 49ers’ recent selection of cornerback Ephesians Prysock in the draft has further crowded the position. Given Apple’s status as a depth player unlikely to crack the top of the depth chart, his time in San Francisco could be nearing its conclusion. At best, he may be a candidate for the practice squad, but even that role is far from guaranteed.
Brayden Willis
Tight end Brayden Willis has spent several years with the 49ers, yet he has yet to record his first career reception. His role has remained strictly that of a depth piece, often elevated to the active roster only in the event of injuries.
With star tight end George Kittle working his way back from a significant Achilles tear suffered in the playoffs, the team may keep Willis around temporarily to help fill out practice groups and the preseason roster. However, the emergence of undrafted free agent Khalil Dinkins from Penn State presents a serious challenge. Many within the organization believe Dinkins could ultimately win the battle for a spot on the 53-man roster once the regular season begins, potentially ending Willis’ tenure in San Francisco.
Nick Zakelj
Offensive lineman Nick Zakelj has been a familiar face on the 49ers roster for multiple seasons. While he has never been a regular starter, he saw increased opportunities in 2024 due to injuries along the offensive line. His longest-lasting connection to the team may be personal — he famously served as Brock Purdy’s roommate during the quarterback’s early days as “Mr. Irrelevant,” when living expenses were tight.
Still, sentimentality has its limits in the NFL. The recent drafting of Enrique Cruz Jr. adds another talented body to the offensive line room, likely signaling the end of Zakelj’s time with the franchise.
Depth players come and go every year in the National Football League, and the 49ers are no exception. As training camp approaches, these three veterans must be acutely aware that their futures in San Francisco are far from secure. While each has contributed in their own way, the team’s continued investment in youth and competition at every position suggests that change is coming — and it may arrive sooner than many expect.
