The 49ers have signed running back Tevin Coleman to a two-year, $10MM deal, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.com (Twitter link).
San Francisco was surprisingly in the running back market even after inking Jerick McKinnon to a four-year, $30MM contract last offseason. McKinnon, of course, missed the entire 2018 season after tearing his ACL, and it wouldn’t result in a significant financial hit for the 49ers to part ways with him. SF reportedly also pursued Le’Veon Bell before he signed with the Jets.
For Coleman, a $5MM annual value is the disappointing result of a disappointing campaign. Coleman witnessed the Falcons give starting running back Devonta Freeman an $8.25MM annual average on a 2017 extension, all but ensuring Coleman wouldn’t be back in Atlanta when his contract expired. When Freeman went down in 2018, Coleman wasn’t able to capitalize with his expanded work load on the ground. While he managed 4.8 yards per carry, Coleman was also among the least efficient backs in the league, per Football Outsiders‘ metrics.
Where Coleman does excel is in the passing game. He’s posted at least 25 receptions in each of the past three seasons, while FO ranked him as a top-20 back in terms of receiving efficiency. Matt Breida, who took over as the 49ers’ starting back once McKinnon went down, isn’t much of a pass-catcher, so Coleman would complement him well. But if Coleman is taking over as San Francisco’s receiving back, McKinnon might not have a role (or a job).
Wow.
Makes me think they aren’t sold on McKinnon and will probably use Breada and Coleman as their 2 back set and move McKinnon one way or another.
I have to agree with you, unfortunately. Sadly, this speaks volumes of Lynch and Shannahan’s line of thinking, when it comes to McKinnon..This tells me, the 49ers decision makers aren’t confident enough in J-Mac coming back fully healthy and 100%.
On a more positive note, Coleman had his best season of his career under KS in 2016, averaging over 6 yards a touch, 11 touches a game, and 72 yards per game. He should be an excellent screen/swing pass option for Jimmy G., and he is good enough to run between the tackles and be successful as well. In 2016, there were several games, were it was Coleman that looked like the better back in Atlanta, so considering how talented Freeman is, that statement is a real testament to Shannahan knowing how to get the best out of Coleman..
This kid is really good. 49ers did well to get him.
Not surprised he would sign with the 49ers. Since Shannon is his former OC
I actually like him as a player. But seems like he, McKinnon, and Breida are all a similar type of back
I agree. He seems a little repetitive. I believe teaming him with Shanahan again can only be a positive though. I’d personally find a way to rid myself of McKinnon and save a little money in the process.
Eagles Fans: Okay let’s go get Bell!
News: Bell inks deal with Jets.
Eagles Fans: Okay let’s go get Ingram!
News: Ingram to Ravens.
Eagles Fans: No worries, Tevin Coleman’s our man.
News: Coleman to 49ers.
Eagles Fans: Umm…
Ingram seems like he would of been a better complimentary back at same price, I wonder if they made a offer. I was hoping for a back that can get that one yard when you need it, goal line or fourth and one. Even Beastmode would of made more sense unless McKinnon isn’t recovering as nice as they like.