One of the first free agents signed by coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch won’t return to the 49ers in 2019.
The team Wednesday declined the option on Earl Mitchell’s contract for the upcoming season, a source confirmed to The Bee, leaving a void at nose tackle likely to be filled by third-year player D.J. Jones. NFL Media was first to report the news.
Mitchell signed a four-year, $16 million contract in February 2017. He was brought in to provide stability in the middle of the defensive line after the team allowed the most rushing yards in club history the season prior.