In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the San Francisco 49ers have parted ways with veteran wide receiver Robbie Chosen, just over a month after signing him. The decision, reported on the NFL transactions wire on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, reflects either a newfound confidence in the health of the 49ers’ wide receiver corps or a stark admission that Chosen’s recent performance did not meet expectations.
Chosen, a 32-year-old speedster who entered the league as an undrafted free agent from Temple in 2016, was initially brought in to bolster San Francisco’s receiving options amid a wave of injuries. Known earlier in his career as Robby or Robbie Anderson, he made his mark with the New York Jets, where he debuted, and later played for the Carolina Panthers, Arizona Cardinals, and Miami Dolphins. Over nine seasons, Chosen has amassed an impressive resume, appearing in 122 games, hauling in 380 receptions for 5,087 yards, and scoring 30 touchdowns.
However, his recent stint with the Dolphins painted a less flattering picture. In 2023, Chosen played nine games, managing just four catches. His 2024 campaign was even quieter, with only one reception for five yards across two games. The 49ers, hoping to capitalize on his veteran savvy and speed, signed him in early August as their receiver room grappled with injuries. Chosen showed flashes of his old self in a preseason game, shining in the second half against backups, but it wasn’t enough to secure his spot.
The arrival of a familiar face likely sealed Chosen’s fate. The 49ers recently re-signed Kendrick Bourne, a fan favorite and reliable contributor in their offensive scheme. Bourne’s return, coupled with potential optimism about the recovery of their injured receivers, appears to have made Chosen expendable. The move suggests San Francisco’s front office is prioritizing roster flexibility and cap space over retaining a veteran whose recent production has been underwhelming.
For Chosen, this release marks a critical juncture in his career. At 32, with his numbers dwindling, his prospects of landing a significant role elsewhere in the NFL may be limited. A practice squad spot could be his most realistic option, testing his determination to prolong his football journey. The decision to cut him underscores the brutal reality of the NFL, where even a player with 380 career catches can be deemed a cap casualty when the numbers—and the depth chart—don’t align.
The 49ers’ move has sparked debate across the league. Is this a sign that their receiving corps is healthier than expected, or simply a vote of no confidence in a once-promising player? As San Francisco shifts focus to the regular season, all eyes will be on their revamped roster—and on Chosen, as he seeks to prove he still has a place in the NFL.