The San Francisco 49ers are set to release Pro Bowl defensive tackle Javon Hargrave as a post-June 1 designation, a move confirmed by general manager John Lynch on Wednesday. Hargrave, who signed a four-year, $84 million contract with the 49ers just two offseasons ago, will now enter free agency in a move aimed at saving costs for San Francisco.
Lynch explained that this move provides Hargrave the opportunity to explore his market, adding, “And it may include us.” Despite the release, Lynch emphasized the team’s interest in potentially bringing him back. “Would we be interested in having him (back)? Of course,” Lynch said, though he acknowledged no agreement has been made yet.
Hargrave joined the 49ers before the 2023 season after seven years with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles. The former third-round pick by the Steelers in 2016 had 168 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 14.5 sacks in four seasons with Pittsburgh.
In 2020, Hargrave signed a three-year, $39 million deal with the Eagles, where his performance surged. Over three seasons in Philadelphia, he totaled 161 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 23 sacks. His standout 2021 season, with 7.5 sacks, earned him his first Pro Bowl appearance. In 2022, he posted his best season yet, with 11 sacks, 16 quarterback hits, and two fumble recoveries.
After that, Hargrave secured a major contract with the 49ers, making his second Pro Bowl in his first season in San Francisco. In 2023, he recorded 44 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and seven sacks, contributing to the 49ers’ Super Bowl run, although they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
However, Hargrave’s 2024 season was cut short after just three games due to a partially torn triceps, requiring surgery and keeping him out for the rest of the year. With two years remaining on his contract, the 32-year-old now heads back to free agency.
Lynch expressed his continued admiration for Hargrave, stating, “He’s an impactful player.” Despite financial challenges, Lynch said the 49ers would still be open to competing for his services.
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