49ers Release Dilfer, Sign O'Sullivan

The San Francisco 49ers terminated quarterback Trent Dilfer's contract Thursday, possibly signaling the end of the 14-year veteran's career. Dilfer started six games for the 49ers last season, passing for 1,166 yards with seven touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 55.1 passer rating before incurring a season-ending concussion. "Trent Dilfer is a true professional in every meaning of the word," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said. "He is one of the most respected players in the league for good reason. Trent has provided great value to our team over the past two years in terms of his leadership, knowledge of the game and play on the field." Dilfer missed the 49ers' final three games last season with the latest in a series of concussions, and the 49ers were unlikely to bring him back this year after third-stringer Shaun Hill performed well in two starts last December. San Francisco also recently signed veteran quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan, a favorite of new offensive coordinator Mike Martz, who has said Alex Smith and Hill will compete for the starting job.