49ers Boost Roster: Beal Jr. Promoted, Gipson Released

The San Francisco 49ers have made significant changes to their roster ahead of their first practice for Week 8. The team announced the promotion of defensive lineman Robert Beal Jr. from the practice squad to the active roster, while defensive lineman Trevis Gipson has been released to accommodate this move.

Beal Jr., standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 250 pounds, was originally drafted by the 49ers in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, being selected 173rd overall. Since joining the team, he has participated in 19 games, accumulating 15 tackles and 1.0 sack. His journey with the 49ers has included a waiver on October 11, 2025, followed by a return to the practice squad on October 14, 2025.

The 26-year-old player hails from Duluth, GA, and his collegiate career at the University of Georgia spanned from 2017 to 2022. During that time, Beal Jr. participated in 54 games, starting 10, and recorded impressive statistics including 72 tackles, 12.0 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks.

In addition to Beal Jr.’s promotion, the 49ers have added linebacker Stone Blanton to the practice squad. Blanton, who is 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 227 pounds, initially joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the 49ers on May 12, 2025. After spending training camp with the team, he was waived on August 26, 2025. The 23-year-old from Madison, MS, played at both Mississippi State University and the University of South Carolina, where he logged 36 games and 24 starts, totaling 184 tackles and 6.0 tackles for loss.

Gipson, who stands at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 263 pounds, has seen action in three games this season, contributing with one fumble recovery. His release marks a strategic decision by the 49ers as they prepare for the upcoming challenges of the season.

As the 49ers gear up for their next game, these roster adjustments reflect the team’s commitment to enhancing their performance on the field.