Matthew Judon released by 49ers after one game on San Francisco’s practice squad

The San Francisco 49ers released veteran edge rusher Matthew Judon from their practice squad on Saturday, October 10, closing a stint that lasted under two weeks and produced one game on the field.

The decision was driven by roster math on the defensive line. San Francisco had to open a practice squad spot for Ogbo Okoronkwo, whom the club removed from the 53-man roster on Friday so it could activate first-round pass rusher Mykel Williams from the reserve/physically unable to perform list. Okoronkwo was then brought back to the practice squad, and Judon was the player who made way.

The team did not include Judon in its own list of Saturday moves. His release showed up on the league’s daily transaction record, and Tom Pelissero and Aaron Wilson both reported it Saturday afternoon.

The 49ers released veteran edge Matt Judon from the practice squad.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 10, 2026

A short stay in San Francisco

Judon joined the practice squad on September 28 after going unsigned since the Buffalo Bills let him go in January. The 49ers elevated him for their Week 4 game against the Denver Broncos, and he logged one tackle in 14 defensive snaps. He played 14 games for two teams in 2025.

A four-time Pro Bowl selection, Judon built his reputation as one of the league’s most consistent edge rushers, but at this stage of his career he was a depth piece behind a line that is finally getting healthier.

How the 49ers line up in Seattle

Williams’ return is the headline. The team cleared him to play Sunday, removing the questionable tag it had placed on him earlier in the week. Okoronkwo, who has appeared in all four games this season with two tackles and a sack, was elevated from the practice squad for the trip along with tight end Jack Stoll.

Judon is now free to sign with any club, including onto another team’s practice squad. Every roster move across the league is tracked on our transactions page.

What comes next

The 49ers visit the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on Sunday, October 11, at 4:25 p.m. EDT in a meeting of NFC West rivals (Game Center). San Francisco then hosts the Washington Commanders on Monday, October 19.