Joe Nedney's hamstring strain is not bad enough for him to be placed on injured reserve. But it's enough of a question mark that the team cleared a roster spot today by releasing defensive lineman Baraka Atkins. If Nedney's hamstring does not recover in time for Sunday's game against the Lions, look for the 49ers to bring in another kicker.
The 49ers signed Atkins, a fourth-round draft pick by the Seahawks in 2007, two weeks ago when Kentwan Balmer (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve.
-- Matt Barrows
