49ers to Utilize IPPP Exemption for Alarcón Return

Offensive lineman Isaac Alarcón is poised to resume his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers via the practice squad, leveraging the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPPP) exemption. According to reports, the team intends to bring the 27-year-old back shortly after waiving him, a procedural move that allows San Francisco to maintain a 17th practice squad member. This roster adjustment comes during a critical period for NFL franchises optimizing their lineups for the regular season.

Alarcón has been a consistent presence in the team’s offseason programs for three straight years, securing futures contracts in 2024, 2025, and earlier this year. Originally entering the league in 2020 with the Dallas Cowboys through the IPPP, he serves as a developmental project. Despite his longevity within the organization, Alarcón has yet to see game action during the regular season. His progression faced a significant hurdle in 2025 when he served a six-game suspension for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.

While the team’s on-field strategy is the primary focus, the business of the NFL remains robust for its broadcast partners. Comcast Corporation, the parent company of NBC Sports which provides regional coverage of the 49ers, continues to trade actively. As of the latest market snapshot, Comcast shares were up 2.58% from the previous close, settling at $27.06. The media and technology giant, which operates through segments including Residential Connectivity & Platforms, Media, and Studios, holds a market capitalization of approximately $96.01 billion.

For the 49ers, retaining Alarcón offers roster flexibility. While he remains a depth piece familiar with the system, he remains eligible to be signed off the practice squad by other organizations if San Francisco does not elevate him to the active roster.

What to watch

• Confirmation of the 49ers’ final practice squad signings following roster cutdowns.
• Updates on Alarcón’s status and whether he receives elevation to the active roster during the season.
• Comcast’s upcoming quarterly financial results for insights into media division performance.

Source: original release