Less than an hour before the negotiating period began on free agency Tuesday, the 49ers announced they had released wide receiver Torrey Smith.
Smith’s departure was widely reported Monday. He was two years in to a five-year contract with a maximum value of $40 million. Smith, who missed the last four games of the season following a concussion, caught 53 passes in two seasons.
“The 49ers would like to thank Torrey for representing this organization with tremendous class over the last two years,” general manager John Lynch said in a statement. “I have always had great respect for his skill as a player and as a wonderful example of how professional athletes can use their platform to make a difference in our community.