49ers waive PK Joey Slye, clearing way for Robbie Gould’s return
The 49ers waived place kicker Joey Slye Tuesday, paving the way for the return of Robbie Gould for their Week 9 game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Given that coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday Gould (groin) was expected to practice Wednesday, the move is not a surprise. Gould, 39, has missed the last three games after being injured in warmups before a 28-21 loss to Seattle.
Slye, 25, missed his first field goal attempt from 48 yards in a 33-22 win over Chicago, then came back and hit one later from the same distance. He also missed an extra point attempt. Shanahan said Monday he would be comfortable with Slye, however, if Gould was not ready.
“Obviously we want Robbie to get back. Slye missed an extra point and he missed that kick, but I like how he keeps coming at it,” Shanahan said. “He had that same kick and he hit that. Does a good job kicking off. He had that big one at the end that really allowed us to take a two-score lead with under four minutes to go. Really enjoyed the guy. I think he competes and he’ll only get better.”
Slye also missed an extra point in the rain against Indianapolis but also connected on a 56-yard field goal in that game.
Gould, 39, converted three of four field goal attempts before being injured. He is in his 17th season and fifth with the 49ers.
In other transactions, the 49ers released linebacker Tyrell Adams from the 53-man roster and also released linebacker Nathan Garry, running back Jacques Patrick and defensive lineman Ryan Yarbrough from the practice squad. Safety Kai Nacua was placed on the practice squad injured reserve list.