Ex-49ers standout defender surprisingly available after not reporting

One former member of the San Francisco 49ers surprisingly is available.

Former 49ers standout defensive end Randy Gregory signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason but hasn't reported for the team. It sounds like he won't end up joining the team after all and reportedly has reached an agreement with Tampa Bay to be released, according to Pro Football Talk's Charean Williams.

"The Buccaneers have reached an agreement with edge rusher Randy Gregory, leading to his release next week, play-by-play announcer Chris Meyers said during the local broadcast of Saturday’s preseason game," Williams said. "Hall of Fame cornerback Rondé Barber, the color commentator on the broadcast, said the team will recoup the veteran’s signing bonus.

"Gregory had $1.365 million guaranteed, including a $1.13 million signing bonus, on the one-year deal he signed with the Bucs this offseason. He exceeded $1 million in fines on Saturday for staying away from the mandatory minicamp, training camp, and two preseason games."

Gregory spent some time with the 49ers last season. He appeared in 12 games and had 2 1/2 sacks and 11 total tackles. He will look for his next opportunity now with the 2024 National Football League season just a few weeks away from kicking off.

San Francisco has been in the news lately as the future of Brandon Aiyuk has been in question but the 49ers could use some more depth elsewhere. It wouldn't hurt to consider a reunion with Gregory on a cheap deal.

More NFL: 49ers 'aren’t that far apart' on massive contract with Brandon Aiyuk