On Tuesday, 49ers GM John Lynch said there were still some things to work out between Ford, the league, and the NFLPA before the team could release the oft-injured pass rusher, but he made it clear it was just a matter of time. Acquired for a second-round pick in 2019 and given a five-year, $85.5 million deal, Ford managed just 9.5 sacks across 18 games in three years with the 49ers. If healthy, Ford could theoretically provide some pass-rushing snaps for a contender, but that is a major if. 

Ford's 31-year-old back has completely derailed his time in San Francisco, and the Niners are going to release him at some point this offseason. Lynch said the timing of that is still being worked out with Ford rehabbing his latest setback. Acquired from the Chiefs ahead of the 2019 season, Ford played in just 18 of a possible 49 games since the trade, and only seven over the last two years. Ford can likely still contribute off the edge if healthy, but that's a big "if."

Ford needed to be activated by Wednesday or spend the rest of the season in injured reserve. It appears as if the latter will be his fate. Ford has now played just 18 games in three seasons since joining the 49ers. San Francisco can save just over $2 million against the cap by cutting Ford in the spring and $7 million if they designated him a June-1 cut. 

Shanahan is hopeful Ford will be ready to play against the Vikings on Sunday. Ford was limited by a back injury during the offseason, and he was only able to make it six limited games before landing on injured reserve with the same issue. If he is healthy, Ford's return will be a boost for the defense.