SF 49ers free agency: 5 role players Niners must re-sign in 2021
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: SF 49ers Running Back Jeff Wilson Jr.
There’s a theory the SF 49ers don’t spend decent money on running backs, although runners Tevin Coleman and Jerick McKinnon contract that notion.
Interestingly enough, both are set to become free agents in 2021, and one could easily make the argument Kyle Shanahan elects not to bring either back, particularly after both haven’t exactly posted worthwhile numbers over the course of the year.
That would leave tailbacks Raheem Mostert and the rookie, JaMycal Hasty, as the only rostered running backs next season.
Unless the team elects to retain depth runner Jeff Wilson Jr.
Wilson is a restricted free agent, meaning the Niners will have some control over their abilities retaining him. And while he has tended to be on the fringes of active game-day rosters, Wilson’s period explosiveness, such as his 112-yard, three-touchdown performance in Week 7 versus the New England Patriots, is evidence enough of his value.
Plus, Wilson is one of the bigger running backs Shanahan has at his disposal, and Wilson’s pass-catching prowess is often undervalued.
He’d be a smart re-sign candidate for 2021.