Braylon Edwards Released: 49ers Sever Ties with Former 1st Round WR

The San Francisco 49ers have chosen to end their brief relationship with former first-round pick Braylon Edwards.

The 28-year-old wide receiver tweeted the news himself today, writing:

This isn't a huge surprise considering Edwards started only five games with nine total appearances this season. He's struggled with his health from day one in the Bay Area and it goes to show why a number of teams avoided him during free agency this summer.

There is a chance that a needy playoff team takes a chance on him.

The move is smart for a 49ers team that didn't risk too much on him and can now move forward as if he was never there. San Francisco is currently fighting with New Orleans for the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs.

Edwards, who caught only 15 passes for 181 yards this season, is now subject to the waiver process although it is unlikely anyone claims him until his health is known.

Two teams that spring to mind are the Patriots and Ravens.

New England has never been shy about taking a shot on anyone, especially at the wide receiver position, and Baltimore's top receiver, Anquan Boldin, is coming off a surgery.

Boldin is expected to return for the start of the postseason though.

Edwards, a former No. 3 overall pick in 2005, has played for the Browns, Jets and 49ers so far in his career.