49ers Guard Jon Feliciano Announces Retirement—But Leaves the Door Open

Injuries Force Feliciano to Step Away

The San Francisco 49ers are set for major changes in 2025, both on the field and within their coaching staff. After a disappointing 6-11 season that saw injuries and underperformance sink their playoff hopes, the team now faces another departure—this time on the offensive line.

Veteran guard Jon Feliciano officially announced his retirement on Thursday, stating that while he still has the desire to play, injuries have made it impossible for him to complete a full season. He revealed that his body simply won’t allow him to continue at the level he expects of himself.

A Potential Playoff Comeback?

Despite stepping away from the game, Feliciano left the door open for a late-season return. In his social media post, he made it clear that if the 49ers—or his former team, the Buffalo Bills—needed offensive line help in December for a playoff push, he’d be open to lacing up his cleats once again.

While his willingness is evident, the likelihood of such a return remains slim. At 32 and coming off knee surgery, Feliciano would face significant physical challenges in rejoining a team that late in the season.

A Solid Nine-Year NFL Career

Feliciano’s NFL journey began in 2015 when the Oakland Raiders selected him in the fourth round of the draft out of Miami. He spent four years in Oakland before moving on to Buffalo, where he played three seasons and became a key piece of their offensive line.

After a one-year stint with the New York Giants, he signed with the 49ers in 2023 but did not suit up for the 2024 season due to injury. With nine years in the league and experience in multiple systems, he leaves behind a respected career, even if his story isn’t fully closed just yet.

For now, Feliciano is retired—but if the right call comes in December, he might not stay that way for long.

By Sunday

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