The evolution of the 49ers’ offense appeared to have ended Kyle Juszczyk’s decorated spell with the team.

However, the nine-time Pro Bowler is now back with the 49ers, signing a deal to return to San Francisco just four days after being released.

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Juszczyk is back on a two-year, $8 million contract.

On his previous contract, Juszczyk was set to count $6.49 million against the 2025 cap. That contract also featured void years through 2028 costing an extra $1.67 million against the cap in 2026 following the expiry of that deal.

Juszczyk had received interest from the Steelers and visited with Pittsburgh this week.

But the 49ers will now get Juszczyk back at a much more palatable price, allowing them to retain one of the most versatile weapons on their offense.

Juszczyk had lined up much more as a tight end in 2024, with the 49ers placing increased emphasis on the dropback game and 11 personnel sets. Per PFF, Juszczyk played as an in-line tight end on 191 snaps. He played 200 in the backfield, 96 in the slot and 50 out wide.

The 49ers’ decision to sign tight end Luke Farrell to a three-year, $20.25 million deal and Juszczyk’s subsequent release seemingly indicated a commitment to that shift in approach.

But Juszczyk’s return gives the 49ers flexibility in being able to alternate between 11, 12 and 21 personnel. The presence of Farrell, meanwhile, will hopefully decrease the burden on Juszczyk to operate as a de-facto tight end, instead freeing him up to play in the role that has earned him so much acclaim across his career.

“I know I’m not done,” the 33-year-old said after the end of the 2024 season.

“I’m definitely not done playing. I’ve seen zero regression. I think especially, I mean, you can turn on the last two games and please show me where I’ve regressed, so I have no plans of stopping.”

The 49ers clearly agree Juszczyk still has something left in the tank, and they’ll be delighted to allow him to have the chance to prove it at a more affordable price.