The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... The 49ers officially released Johnson on Wednesday after acquiring him last offseason for a fourth-round draft pick.

Diehards Line: The release of Johnson clears an immediate salary-cap savings of $6.025 million. Both sides have left the door open for Johnson to re-sign with the 49ers at a lower salary. Johnson, 28, was the 49ers' No. 3 wide receiver, catching 35 passes for 435 yards and three touchdowns. He missed the final three games of the season with a knee injury. The 49ers informed Johnson of their decision after former Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith's officially signed and passed his physical to join San Francisco on a five-year, $40 million contract.