The San Francisco 49ers have released edge rusher Xavier Thomas as they approach the NFL roster cuts scheduled for August 30. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 250 pounds, Thomas was selected in the fifth round (No. 138 overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals.
After being let go by the Cardinals late in the 2025 season, he joined the Houston Texans' practice squad before his release on July 6.
Signed by the 49ers on August 12, Thomas's tenure with the team was brief. NFL reporter Aaron Wilson indicated that the decision to waive him was influenced by an injury, highlighting the importance of roster choices as the deadline nears. Another NFL reporter, T2, noted that each transaction is crucial as the team works to finalize its 53-man roster.
Thomas gained fame during his time at Clemson, where he was recognized as a Freshman All-American in 2018 and played a role in the team’s national championship win. Over six seasons at Clemson, he tallied 43 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks while dealing with injuries in 2020 and 2022.
The 49ers are currently in a precarious situation at the edge rusher position, with both of their anticipated starters recovering from ACL injuries incurred during the 2025 season.