THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The San Francisco 49ers finally released offensive tackle Jonas Jennings on Friday after four injury-filled seasons with the club.
Jennings was the first major free agent signing of former coach Mike Nolan's tenure in 2005, leaving the Buffalo Bills for a US$36-million, seven-year deal. But the lineman played in just 23 of the 49ers' 64 games, finishing three of his four seasons on injured reserve.
Although signed to be the 49ers' left tackle, he missed all but three games of his first season in San Francisco with shoulder injuries. He played in just five games in 2007 while dealing with an ankle injury and undisclosed personal issues.
He moved to right tackle last season, but played just two games before dislocating his right shoulder, which required three major surgeries during his years with the club.
Jennings would have made $4.2 million in base salary during the upcoming season. The 49ers told him to stay away from their minicamp earlier this month while they worked out the details of releasing him.
The 49ers are close to a deal with longtime Pittsburgh lineman Marvel Smith to replace Jennings at right tackle. Veterans Adam Snyder and Barry Sims, who filled in for Jennings last season, are also expected to compete for the job at training camp.
