49ers Strengthen Practice Squad with Bruce Hector, Release Jaylen Mahoney
The San Francisco 49ers have made significant adjustments to their practice squad by signing defensive lineman Bruce Hector and releasing safety Jaylen Mahoney. This move reflects the team’s ongoing efforts to optimize their roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Bruce Hector Joins 49ers Practice Squad
Bruce Hector, a 6-foot-2, 296-pound defensive lineman, has had a varied career since entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He initially signed with the Philadelphia Eagles and has played for multiple teams over the years, including:
- Philadelphia Eagles (2018-2020)
- Arizona Cardinals (2019)
- Carolina Panthers (2020-2021)
- Tennessee Titans (2021)
- Detroit Lions (2021-2023)
- Houston Texans (2023)
- New York Jets (2023-2024)
During his seven-year career, Hector has appeared in 22 games, starting once, and has recorded a total of 21 tackles and 1.5 sacks. He also played in a postseason game, showcasing his experience at a critical level of competition. In 2024, while with the Jets, he achieved 10 tackles and 1.0 sack over six games.
Hector’s College Background
Before joining the NFL, Hector played college football at the University of South Florida from 2014 to 2017. There, he appeared in 42 games, accumulating impressive statistics that included:
- 90 tackles
- 18.0 sacks
- Three passes defensed
- Two forced fumbles
Hector is now 31 years old and hails from Tampa, Florida.
Jaylen Mahoney Released
To create space on the practice squad for Hector, the 49ers have released safety Jaylen Mahoney. Mahoney was signed to the team’s practice squad on September 24, 2025. The decision to let him go indicates the team’s commitment to refining their roster as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
The 49ers continue to make strategic moves as they seek to enhance their performance in the upcoming season.
