The San Francisco 49ers are bringing in a running back to suit up for the team's final exhibition game against the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday. Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports the 49ers will sign former Humboldt State running back Ja'Quan Gardner, pending a physical.
With the 49ers' shortage of backs, the club is bringing in former Humboldt State RB Ja'Quan Gardner. If he passes his physical, the #49ers will sign him to be available to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Chargers, a league source said.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) August 28, 2018
Gardner was among the 33 free agent rookies invited to participate in the 49ers' minicamp in May. He averaged 1,608 yards and 20 touchdowns in his final three seasons at HSU.
The 49ers are expected to place wide receiver Max McCaffrey on injured reserve. He had foot surgery on Monday.
Players who are likely to make the final roster are unlikely to see much playing time on Thursday. The 49ers were already without running backs Jerick McKinnon and Matt Breida, who will hopefully be ready for Week 1. Joe Williams is questionable after sustaining a rib injury against the Houston Texans. Veteran Alfred Morris may have impressed the coaches enough against the Indianapolis Colts to warrant a roster spot and Raheem Mostert could be safe as well.
NFL teams must cut their rosters down from 90 players to 53 by Saturday at 1:00 p.m. PT.