Andy Lee to Browns: Latest Trade Details, Comments and Reaction

After 11 seasons, three Pro Bowls and three All-Pro nods with the San Francisco 49ers, punter Andy Lee is on the move, as he was traded to the Cleveland Browns on Saturday, the team announced. 

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Niners will receive a 2017 seventh-round pick in exchange for one of the most recognizable and successful punters in the league:

"

“For the last 11 years, Andy has been a tremendous representative of the 49ers organization both on the field and in the community,” said general manager Trent Baalke, via 49ers.com. “While he may be best known for his production on the field, we have come to know Andy as a great teammate and family man. We would like to thank Andy for his commitment to this organization, while wishing him and his family continued success throughout his career and beyond.”

"

Lee spoke about his time with the 49ers following the move, via 49ers.com.

"

It has truly been an amazing 11 years with the 49ers organization, and I’m thankful for everything they have done for me. San Francisco gave me the opportunity to play in the NFL by drafting me in 2004, and will forever be a special place for me and my family. Thank you to the York family, my teammates, the coaches, the football staff and the Faithful for your support over the years. It’s been a great time!

"

In a corresponding move, the Browns released punter Spencer Lanning to make room for Lee:

Lee enjoyed another solid year in 2014, but his 46.8 yards per punt and net average of 39.6 yards were his lowest marks since 2010. 

The 49ers may have felt as though the 32-year-old University of Pittsburgh product was on the decline, as they selected Clemson punter Bradley Pinion in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft.

Per Schefter, that signaled the beginning of the end of Lee's tenure in San Francisco:

Lee's trade to Cleveland comes just two days after 49ers general manager Trent Baalke insisted that Pinion would have to wrestle the job away from Lee, according to ESPN.com's Paul Gutierrez:

"First thing, what we saw in Bradley is a big, strong-legged punter that also kicks off," Baalke said. "What it means for Andy, no different than any other position. You come in and you compete. It's not a message to Andy at all. It's not Bradley's job; it's Andy's job. It's Brad's job to come in and win that job."

Lee's trade continues an offseason of upheaval for the Niners as offensive tackle Anthony Davis, defensive lineman Justin Smith and linebackers Patrick Willis and Chris Borland have all retired. Also, running back Frank Gore, wide receiver Michael Crabtree and several other starters have left via free agency.

While a change at punter may not be among San Francisco's most significant moves leading up to the 2015 season, Lee's departure is another sign that a new era of 49ers football is very much on the horizon.

Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter