49ERS CUT BRAYDEN WILLIS AFTER 16-HOUR FLIGHT TO AUSTRALIA

San Francisco 49ers released tight end Brayden Willis after he travelled 16 hours to Australia for the team's season opener in Melbourne. The move created roster space for long snapper Jon Weeks ahead of the match. According to reports, the decision may indicate that tight end George Kittle is approaching readiness to return from an Achilles tendon injury.

Willis joined the 49ers as an undrafted free agent signing. The timing of his release, coinciding with the team's travel to Australia for their opening fixture, suggests the 49ers prioritised securing specialist roster positions over retaining Willis for the trip. Long snappers fulfil a specialist role in American football, snapping the ball directly to the holder on field goal and punt attempts.

The 49ers' decision to add Weeks reflects their assessment of roster requirements for the Melbourne match. Should Kittle's recovery from his Achilles injury progress as anticipated, the team would have additional depth at the tight end position, potentially reducing Willis's standing on the depth chart. The club has not made further statement regarding Willis's future with the organisation.