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Kyle Shanahan says Jeff Wilson’s ability to catch the football is a bonus for 49ers

Dec 5, 2018 at 11:28 AM--


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The San Francisco 49ers signed running back Jeff Wilson as an undrafted free agent out of North Texas on May 1. He might have remained a fixture on the practice squad this season had it not been for multiple injuries within the running back group.

The 23-year old found himself receiving the majority of the running back touches this past Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.

Wilson registered career highs with 15 carries for 61 rushing yards to go along with eight receptions for 73 yards. His eight receptions are the most by a San Francisco running back since Carlos Hyde hauled in nine against Arizona on November 5, 2017.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters on Wednesday that the 49ers brought Wilson in because of his ability to run the football. His pass-catching skills turned out to be a bonus.

"We brought him here for his running ability," Shanahan said. "He wasn't bad in the pass game, but that's not what interested us. But seeing him in practice and just working at it every day, he definitely is an option."

Shanahan recalled one play in particular from Wilson that impressed him.

"He had a real impressive third down — I think it was the first third down of the game (vs. Seattle)," he shared. "It was versus man-to-man. He ran a five-yard end route versus some tight coverage. I thought that was a real impressive one. He did a good job on the screens (too), but I hope they can catch those."

A reporter also asked Shanahan about Wilson's ability to run over defenders, something on display in Seattle. Is that style of running sustainable? Is there concern on the coaches' part with the team already being so devastated by injuries?

"That's his style. That's what got him an opportunity in this league, and that's what he does best," Shanahan responded. "That's why he's going to make it. I hope he doesn't lose that for his and our sake.

"He runs hard, and that's what he does good. Hopefully, we can keep him healthy, and he keeps getting better and better."

Fans can expect a healthy dose of Wilson on Sunday against the Broncos. Shanahan has already ruled out running back Matt Breida for the game.



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