NFLPA President Jalen Reeves-Maybin Shocks Fans with Surprise 49ers Tryout—What Happens Next?

Jalen Reeves-Maybin’s NFL journey hit a rough patch after the Lions cut him loose this past March — and since then, he’s been waiting on the sidelines, unsigned. Recently, the 49ers handed him a shot, alongside four other linebackers, to prove they still value his skills. That opportunity popped up right after Fred Warner’s unfortunate ankle injury landed him on IR, leaving a hole in San Francisco’s defense. The quartet working out with Reeves-Maybin included Kam Arnold, Stone Blanton, Ben Niemann, and Chandler Wooten — all chasing the same dream. Yet, despite the chance, Reeves-Maybin didn’t snag a contract, a situation that could complicate NFLPA’s leadership come 2026 when a new union president election looms. A quiet free agent today, but a pivotal figure tomorrow? Let’s see how this saga unfolds. LEARN MORE

The Lions cut linebacker and NFLPA president Jalen Reeves-Maybin in March. He has since not landed with another team.

He received a recent opportunity with the 49ers, along with four other linebackers.

It makes sense; the 49ers placed Fred Warner on injured reserve on Saturday, due to the dislocated and fractured ankle he suffered last Sunday in Tampa.

The others who received workouts were Kam Arnold, Stone Blanton, Ben Niemann, and Chandler Wooten.

Reeves-Maybin was not signed. His lingering unemployment of Reeves-Maybin could become a problem in March 2026, when it’s time to elect a new union president.