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San Francisco 49ers reinforce running back position by recruiting Jeff Wilson Jr.

The injured San Francisco 49ers backs' team appears to be welcoming back Jeff Wilson Jr., a former member of the squad. Reports suggest he has returned after over four years away.

Forty-Niners reinforce running back position with signing of Jeff Wilson Jr.
Forty-Niners reinforce running back position with signing of Jeff Wilson Jr.

San Francisco 49ers reinforce running back position by recruiting Jeff Wilson Jr.

San Francisco 49ers bolster running back corps with return of Jeff Wilson Jr.

The San Francisco 49ers have strengthened their running back position by re-signing Jeff Wilson Jr., who spent the first four-plus years of his NFL career with the team before being traded to the Miami Dolphins midway through the 2022 season.

Wilson Jr., an undrafted free agent from North Texas in 2018, made a significant impact in San Francisco, rushing for 1,733 yards and 15 touchdowns during his tenure with the team. His return comes at a crucial time as the 49ers' backfield has been depleted by injuries.

As it stands, the team has only Christian McCaffrey, Corey Kiner, Patrick Taylor Jr., and Ke'Shawn Vaughn as healthy options in the backfield. Ameer Abdullah, who worked out with Wilson Jr. on July 30 and signed with the 49ers, sustained a rib injury during Saturday's preseason opener against Denver.

Isaac Guerendo and Jordan James are also currently sidelined due to a shoulder injury and a broken finger, respectively. This leaves the team in need of depth and experience, which Wilson Jr. aims to provide.

Wilson Jr. signed a one-year deal and is expected to be a key contributor, especially in the preseason where the 49ers aim to limit McCaffrey's workload. Along with Corey Kiner showing promise with solid preseason performances, Wilson’s veteran presence bolsters the backfield depth that was thinner due to injuries.

This move also comes as the 49ers want to avoid over-using McCaffrey too early and remain competitive while multiple backs recover. Wilson Jr.'s return addresses this issue, giving the team more healthy options as they enter the season.

The 29-year-old Jeff Wilson Jr. provides depth to the San Francisco 49ers' running back position, which has been affected by injuries. His return is a welcome boost for the team as they look to maintain their competitiveness in the NFL.

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