In a surprising decision, the San Francisco 49ers have waived outside linebacker Drake Jackson, a second-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, due to a failed physical. Jackson, who is rehabilitating a significant knee injury, recorded three sacks and an interception in his rookie season. His promising start was derailed by a severe injury in Week 7 of the 2023 season, which also sidelined him for the entire 2024 season following surgery. Although coach Kyle Shanahan expressed the challenges of recovering from such injuries, the team has now allowed Jackson to seek an opportunity elsewhere, potentially benefiting a team in need of depth at the linebacker position.