49ers release linebacker Malcolm Smith, former Super Bowl MVP

Kirstie Chiappelli

49ers release linebacker Malcolm Smith, former Super Bowl MVP image

Malcolm Smith is moving on from San Francisco already.

​The veteran linebacker and Super Bowl 48 MVP was released by the 49ers Tuesday after just two seasons, the team announced.

The Niners signed veteran receiver Nick Williams to take Smith's spot on the roster.

Smith was initially selected by the Seahawks in the seventh round of the 2011 draft and remained in Seattle until his two-year stint with the Raiders.

He then signed a five-year contract worth $26.5 million with the Niners in March 2017, but missed that entire season with a torn pectoral and four games in 2018 after being plagued by other injuries. He had 35 tackles and one pass breakup in 12 games over his two years with the team.

The 30-year-old is expected to garner plenty of interest from other teams around the league before the regular season starts next Thursday.

Kirstie Chiappelli