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SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The San Francisco 49ers cut 12 players, traded one and put two more on injured reserve the past few days, trimming their roster to the NFL-mandated 75 players. Here’s a closer look at the first cuts: Most significant move: Placing receiver Bruce Ellington on injured reserve with a hamstring injury is a big blow to the 49ers' already-thin receiving corps. Ellington was expected to be a key piece of the puzzle as the primary slot receiver and return man, and he drew praise from coach Chip Kelly during the preseason. Now, Ellington won't get a chance to have the breakout season that some in the organization thought might be coming, and the 49ers are even lighter at wideout. Cornerback gets clarity: Cornerback Kenneth Acker started 13 games in 2015, but that didn't guarantee him anything in a crowded cornerback room. The 49ers traded Acker to the Kansas City Chiefs for a 2018 seventh-round draft choice after Acker spent most of camp working with the third-team defense. It was a wise move to get something for Acker, who probably wasn't going to make the 53-man roster considering the 49ers' depth at the position. Help wanted: Though losing Ellington hurts, the subtraction of receivers Jerome Simpson, DiAndre Campbell and Eric Rogers (on IR) weren't surprise moves, but it offered a reminder of the fact that the 49ers need some help on the perimeter. DeAndre Smelter (hamstring) and Bryce Treggs (knee) are also dealing with injury issues, which have left San Francisco short at the position. The 49ers have already done something about it, trading offensive lineman Brandon Thomas to the Detroit Lions for experienced slot receiver Jeremy Kerley. He adds depth and experience to a group in need of both, but don't be surprised if the 49ers continue to scour for more help at the position. 49ers moves: Released WR Campbell, RB Kendall Gaskins, DL Darren Lake, K John Lunsford, LB Wynton McManis, OL Blake Muir, OL Ian Silberman, WR Simpson, CB Cleveland Wallace, TE Busta Anderson, OL Erik Pears, LB Jason Fanaika. Traded CB Acker to the Kansas City Chiefs. Placed WR Ellington and WR Rogers (knee) on injured reserve.
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