The 49ers released defensive lineman Naquan Jones, the team announced Tuesday.

The 49ers could be making the move to clear a roster spot for wide receiver Christian Kirk. Kirk’s 21-day return-to-practice window opened last week. He has been on injured reserve all season with a calf injury.

Jones appeared in three games and totaled two tackles with the team this season.

James Thompson’s return made Jones expendable. Thompson returned Monday night after missing time with a high ankle sprain in Week 2, and Jones was inactive.

Jones, 28, has appeared in 63 games with eight starts in his six seasons, totaling 104 tackles, 6.5 sacks and five passes defensed.