Santa Clara, California – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL and reinforced the organization’s uncompromising standards, the San Francisco 49ers announced the immediate release of 2026 fourth-round pick Carver Willis on Wednesday morning.
The decision comes after a disturbing incident at the team’s SAP Performance Facility in Santa Clara, where the rookie offensive tackle reportedly directed derogatory and aggressive language toward a longtime female staff member who has worked for the organization for over 15 years.
According to multiple sources inside the building, Willis became visibly frustrated over a minor equipment issue during a walkthrough and unleashed an outburst at the staff member. The organization acted swiftly and decisively.
Head Coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the situation during an emotional and direct press conference at the facility, making it clear that this type of behavior has no place in the 49ers locker room.
“We have people in this building who show up every single day and do the hard, thankless work that allows us to compete at the highest level. If you can’t respect them, you don’t understand what it means to be a Niner. It’s that simple.”
The incident reportedly took place late Tuesday evening. By Wednesday morning, Willis’ locker had already been cleared out.
Carver Willis, a promising offensive tackle out of Washington who was viewed as a developmental piece with starting upside, now finds himself on the waiver wire with a significant character concern attached to his name.
Shanahan emphasized that the 49ers’ culture is built on accountability and mutual respect — not just between players, but toward every single person who contributes to the organization.
“We talk about The Standard every single day in this building,” Shanahan continued. “That Standard applies on the field, in the weight room, in the hallways, and in how you treat the people who make this place run. There are no exceptions. None.”
The release comes as the 49ers continue building around core veterans and young talent, with the organization making it clear that character and professionalism remain non-negotiable — even for highly drafted rookies.
For Willis, the timing could not be worse. He now enters free agency with his reputation significantly damaged before ever playing a single regular season snap.
In Santa Clara, the message has been sent loud and clear: talent alone is not enough. If you cannot meet The Standard — on and off the field — you will not be a San Francisco 49er.
The empty locker in the SAP Performance Facility serves as the latest reminder of that reality.
