In a bold move to accommodate their newly acquired running back, Brian Robinson Jr., the San Francisco 49ers have waived 6’2″ wide receiver Malik Knowles, marking his second release from the team this year. The decision comes as the NFL’s roster cut deadline looms, with all teams required to trim their 90-man rosters to 53 players by August 26, 2025, at 1 p.m. EDT.
A Crowded Receiver Room Forces Tough Choices
The 49ers currently have 12 wide receivers on their roster, including Junior Bergen, Robbie Chosen, Jacob Cowing, Russell Gage Jr., Isaiah Hodgins, Jauan Jennings, Skyy Moore, Terique Owens, Ricky Pearsall, Demarcus Robinson, Malik Turner, and Jordan Watkins. With injuries plaguing the receiver position, veterans like Robbie Chosen and intriguing prospects like Terique Owens, son of NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens, remain in contention for roster spots. Owens recently made headlines by catching his first preseason touchdown on August 23, 2025, after drawing inspiration from his father.
However, the addition of Brian Robinson Jr., acquired from the Washington Commanders for a sixth-round pick, necessitated roster adjustments. Knowles, who signed a one-year deal with the 49ers in June 2025, was waived just two months later. He briefly re-signed on August 20, played one special teams snap in the final preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers, and was waived again on August 24.
Malik Knowles’ Winding NFL Journey
Knowles, a Kansas State product, has faced a challenging path since entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings in April 2023. A non-football injury led to his release in August 2024, after which he spent 45 days on the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad. His stint with the 49ers offered a fresh opportunity, but with the team prioritizing depth at running back, Knowles now finds himself seeking another chance in the NFL, likely on a practice squad.
During his senior year at Kansas State, Knowles showcased his versatility, recording 48 catches for 725 yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing eight carries for 164 yards and three rushing touchdowns. His athleticism and 6’2″ frame make him an intriguing prospect, but his immediate future remains uncertain.
Brian Robinson Jr. Bolsters the Backfield
The 49ers’ acquisition of Brian Robinson Jr. signals their commitment to maintaining a formidable rushing attack, especially with star running back Christian McCaffrey returning from a PCL injury. Robinson, a third-round pick by the Washington Commanders in the 2022 NFL Draft, brings a resilient story to San Francisco. After surviving a shooting incident during an armed robbery that delayed his rookie debut, he returned in Week 5 of the 2022 season and eventually secured the starting role.
Despite his contributions, Robinson’s production in Washington was overshadowed by the Commanders’ depth at running back and the emergence of mobile quarterback Jayden Daniels. With Robinson’s contract set to expire after the 2025 season, the Commanders opted to trade him rather than commit to a new deal.
Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We brought him here to be our two back. I’ve always been a big fan of Brian. Loved him coming out of college. He’s done really well going against him, and we were pumped that he was available, and we were able to get him.”
Looking Ahead
As the 49ers finalize their 53-man roster, the release of Knowles underscores the ruthless nature of NFL roster decisions. While the team strengthens its backfield with Robinson as a complement to McCaffrey, the receiver room remains a battleground, with veterans and young talents vying for limited spots. For Knowles, the hope is that his size, speed, and college production will earn him another opportunity, whether in San Francisco’s practice squad or elsewhere in the league.