The San Francisco 49ers will probably cut ties with veteran journeyman Leonard Floyd as he won’t be the only one on the chopping block. According to reports, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell believes the 49ers will part ways with Floyd and other defensive linemen like Yetur Gross-Matos and Jordan Elliott. Former 49ers defensive coordinator Brandon Staley made several moves to sign plenty of defensive line journeymen to improve the team’s trenches. It was his philosophy to get them in rotation to help alongside the best pass rusher Nick Bosa.
However, the 49ers have a new sheriff in town Robert Saleh who will most likely instill his own speciality to the team’s defense. Floyd probably won’t fit in the new scheme so it should not be a surprise if the team winds up releasing him before free agency begins. Originally selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the former Georgia product was once a reliable defensive lineman for the Chicago Bears before moving with the Los Angeles Rams to win the Super Bowl alongside Aaron Donald where they had one of the best defenses during that time. The veteran isn’t the same elite player he once was but with the right contender, many should expect him to have at least a couple of more seasons to excel.
ESPN: 49ers Could “Cut Ties” With Veteran Journeyman Leonard Floyd
Next Possible Destinations
Baltimore Ravens
If anyone could use some veteran insurance in the trenches, it’s the Baltimore Ravens. The team lost Jadeveon Clowney last offseason and had to depend on a young Trenton Simpson. Floyd may struggle in stopping the run but with a new scheme and getting him in rotation, it could improve his production. There was a reason why the Ravens brought back Yannick Ngakoue to the lineup but oddly released him midseason again.
Floyd isn’t getting more than five sacks but they need more experience on that pass rush alongside Nnamdi Madubuike.
Dallas Cowboys
After extending Osa Odighizuwa, the Dallas Cowboys should be in good hands as long as they find the right deal for Micah Parsons. Floyd isn’t going to earn much more than a one-year deal so the Cowboys could take advantage of that opportunity. The veteran could be a steal for the Dallas defensive line, especially since the Cowboys will probably lose long-time veteran Demarcus Lawrence in free agency.
Cincinnati Bengals
After making several moves like cutting Sheldon Rankins, the Bengals don’t have the financial capability to sign the best defensive lineman. If Floyd becomes available, the team should probably consider signing him. He isn’t going to outperform Trey Hendrickson if he isn’t traded but will be able to fill in the gaps.
Kansas City Chiefs
The same can be said about the Chiefs. Even though they have one of the best defensive tackles in Chris Jones, they need more help for George Karlaftis. With Tershawn Wharton likely leaving in free agency, Floyd could be a temporary replacement to keep the line on balance.
New Orleans Saints
This would be the perfect opportunity for the New Orleans Saints. They will anticipate losing Chase Young and possibly cutting Cameron Jordan. However, Floyd could give the Saints some relief at a bargain. He isn’t going to replace the production of Young but some extra veteran presence could be efficient to keep the Saints regardless of their salary cap issues.
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