The San Francisco 49ers are parting ways with defensive lineman Drake Jackson, the 61st overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. This decision comes after Jackson was designated for release due to a failed physical stemming from ongoing knee issues. Despite his potential and productivity during his rookie season, where he recorded six sacks, Jackson has struggled with injuries, seeing limited action in his second season. This move opens up possibilities for Jackson to find a new team and revive his career, while the 49ers look to bolster their pass rush with their recent first-round draft pick, Mykel Williams, alongside Nick Bosa.

The San Francisco 49ers have made a significant roster move, waiving defensive lineman Drake Jackson. This decision comes after Jackson was unable to participate for the last season and a half due to a torn patellar tendon in his left knee, which ultimately led to his failed physical designation. Jackson, a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had a promising start, recording six sacks in 23 games, with a standout performance in the 2023 season opener. However, the team's draft class that year has seen little success, with only quarterback Brock Purdy becoming a consistent starter.

In a bid to bolster their offensive line, the 49ers also signed former first-round picks Andre Dillard and Nicholas Petit-Frere. These additions are meant to provide competition for the swing tackle position behind starters Trent Williams and Colton McKivitz. Defensive depth was further enhanced by signing cornerback Dallis Flowers, while the team waved offensive lineman Jalen McKenzie and cornerback Tre Tomlinson due to injuries. Furthermore, the 49ers successfully signed seven of their eleven draft picks, indicating their commitment to building a strong roster for the upcoming season.

Drake Jackson's NFL career faced a significant setback when the San Francisco 49ers waived him following a failed physical due to a serious patellar tendon injury. Drafted in the second round of the 2022 draft, Jackson was expected to bring speed and agility to the 49ers' defense, especially alongside All-Pro Nick Bosa. However, persistent injuries, including previous knee and quadricep issues, have limited his impact, resulting in only 23 games played and a placement on the reserve/physically unable to perform list for the 2023 season.

Initially praised for his athleticism at USC, Jackson's potential has been overshadowed by concerns over his technique and ability to counter stronger opponents in the NFL. He now shifts focus to rehabilitation, with hopes of rejoining the team for training camp next season.

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.

San Francisco 49ers GM John Lynch provided a concerning update on defensive end Drake Jackson at the NFL Scouting Combine, highlighting the challenges associated with his quad tendon injury. Lynch noted parallels with former player Mike McGlinchey, who still deals with pain post-repair. Since being drafted in 2022, Jackson has struggled with injuries, limiting his impact on the field to just 23 games over two seasons. Lynch expressed hope that Jackson could turn his health around, emphasizing the team's reliance on a strong draft class to bolster their defense.