The latest on the 49ers, from Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports:
- Running back Jerick McKinnon is highly unlikely to return at his scheduled $6.8MM rate, but the Niners would be willing to re-sign him on a cheaper deal, Maiocco hears. Raheem Mostert, Matt Breida, and Tevin Coleman all offer catching ability, but Jet, when healthy, is the most agile of the bunch. McKinnon joined the 49ers on a four-year, $30MM contract before the 2018 season, but has yet to take a snap for SF thanks to knee injuries. In 2017, his final year with the Vikes, McKinnon enjoyed career highs in receptions (51) and receiving yards (421).
- Maiocco does not expect the Niners to pick up Solomon Thomas‘ fifth-year option. It’s hard to argue – the former No. 3 overall pick would cost $15.3MM in 2021 via the option and he has been little more than a rotational player so far as a pro. To date, Thomas has just six sacks and no forced fumbles across three seasons.
- Nose tackle D.J. Jones suffered damage to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula, Maiocco hears. The injury left the Niners with no choice but to place Jones on season-ending IR, since he had no realistic chance of recuperating in time for the Super Bowl, if the Niners qualify.
McKinnon should play for free after getting paid to sit on his ass for 2 years.
Agreed