49ers News: 49ers welcome DE Sam Okuayinonu, release OT Gutierrez, and waive S Hawkins

Per The Athletic’s Matt Barrows , the San Francisco 49ers have made some roster adjustments ahead of the upcoming season. The team has signed defensive end Sam Okuayinonu to their practice squad, while also releasing offensive tackle Sebastian Gutierrez and waiving safety Tayler Hawkins from the injured reserve list.

Okuayinonu, who stands at 6’1” and weighs 269 pounds, previously played for the University of Maryland and went undrafted in 2022. During the preseason, he showcased his potential by logging 65 snaps, which included a sack and a run stop. With the possibility of Yetur Gross-Matos missing the first week of the season, Okuayinonu could find himself elevated to the active roster soon.

Gutierrez, who played 84 snaps at left tackle this preseason, was let go to make space for Okuayinonu. The 49ers have specific expectations for their tackles, particularly in the run game, and Gutierrez did not meet those standards.

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Hawkins, a player who was favored by the coaching staff, has also been waived from the injured reserve.

As the 49ers prepare for the season, these moves reflect their ongoing efforts to refine the roster and strengthen their defensive lineup.