The San Francisco 49ers are set to say farewell to one of their long-standing defensive forces, Arik Armstead. After nine seasons with the team, the former Oregon Ducks standout will be released, Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz reports. Attempts to negotiate a pay cut from his $17.4 million salary, as part of a restructure, were reportedly rejected by Armstead, now setting him up to enter the free agency market, as confirmed by OregonLive.
Turning 30 in November, Armstead was expected to make $17.41 million this year in what would have been the final year of his five-year, $85 million contract. Despite his intent to now capitalize on free agency, the veteran's recent bout with injuries — missing 13 games over the past two seasons — may taint his market value. His stats, though, with 33.5 career sacks and 302 tackles, could still entice potential suitors to make an offer. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Armstead's market interest is already showing signs of life. To maintain his fitness, despite the injuries, he managed to put up an impressive postseason performance, racking up 11 tackles, a sack, and multiple quarterback pressures, as per Oregon Live.
In a move that's part to shake up their roster and part financial strategy, the 49ers parting with Armstead will free up much-needed cap space. The nine-year stint in San Francisco saw Armstead evolve into a prominent defensive figure, including a stand-out 2019 season with a career-best 10 sacks. His presence on the field helped propel the team to 12 playoff appearances, according to 247Sports. The financial liberation for the 49ers could prove vital as they look to build upon their roster for the upcoming season.
The landscape of the 49ers' defensive line is set to rapidly shift after Armstead's departure, which according to NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco, will save the team approximately $2.5 million in cap space. Starting Monday with the advent of NFL Free Agency, Armstead is projected to find a new home at the earliest. He leaves behind a legacy in San Francisco, not just as a relentless defender, but also as a community figure emerging from nearby Sacramento. As reported by Sports Illustrated, Armstead's tenure alongside other former Ducks like DeForest Buckner has been a source of pride for the franchise and local fans alike.
