The grim reality of NFL roster trimming hit two of the three free agent former NIU players this weekend, as Akil Grant and Chris Finlen were released.

Elsewhere, P.J. Fleck and Michael Turner – a fifth-round draft pick this year – are still on the active rosters for the San Francisco 49ers and San Diego Chargers, respectively

Grant, a free-agent strong safety, appeared in two preseason games for the Tennessee Titans. He intercepted the Cleveland Browns’ Luke McCown in his first professional game.

“I think [Grant will] catch on somewhere,” said Fleck. “I’ve heard from people around the league about the great job he’s done. It just comes down to numbers sometimes.”

Finlen, NIU’s career passing yardage leader, was released by the New York Jets after they signed free agent quarterback Quincy Carter.

Fleck, the Huskies’ leading receiver in 2003, is among the final 65 49ers after they released 13 players Sunday. He caught two passes for 46 passes against his hometown Chicago Bears on Aug. 21. NFL teams must announce their final rosters of 53 players by Sept. 7.

“I’m still here; that’s my motto,” Fleck said. “I live to see another day. I’m just grateful to still be around. A lot of guys I’ve made friends with during camp got cut. It’s not a friendly business.”

Turner, NIU’s all-time leading rusher, played in his third preseason game with the Chargers Saturday. He led the team with 17 rushing yards on five carries. He also caught one pass for two yards. For the preseason, he has 78 rushing yards on 25 carries and 26 receiving yards on six catches.