San Francisco 49ers waive Brayden Willis before season opener

The San Francisco 49ers waived tight end Brayden Willis on Saturday ahead of their upcoming season opener against the Los Angeles Rams. In corresponding moves, the team signed long snapper Jon Weeks and Khalid Kareem to the 53-man roster while placing Sam Okuayinonu on injured reserve. Willis, a 2023 seventh-round draft pick, recorded 39 receptions for 514 yards and seven touchdowns during his final season at Oklahoma. His departure from the active roster is viewed as a potential indicator regarding the availability of All-Pro tight end George Kittle. Kittle has been recovering from an Achilles tendon injury sustained during the NFC Wild Card round in January. The team may still have the option to use Willis via the practice squad if Kittle remains sidelined for the start of the season.

• 12:54 AMYahoo Sports — San Francisco 49ers Part Ways With 6-foot-4, 240-Pound Tight End