It's not uncommon for the official announcements of player signings or re-signings to come well after the initial reports of the news. However, with NFL teams working remotely out of home offices this offseason due to the coronavirus pandemic, those announcements are taking longer than usual.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported on March 18 that the 49ers were re-signing center Ben Garland to a one-year deal. Ten days later, the team finally officially announced the move, along with a statement from general manager John Lynch.
"Ben stepped in at a critical point in our season last year and did a great job," said Lynch. "He is a versatile interior lineman who battles every play and gives you everything he has. Off the field, Ben is one of the most active NFL players in the community, and we are privileged to have him representing the 49ers and the Bay Area."
Garland, 31, stepped in as the starting center following Weston Richburg's season-ending torn patellar tendon. Garland started during San Francisco's final six games, including the team's three playoff matchups.
Garland has 63 game appearances and 10 starts through his six NFL seasons. The 49ers initially signed him on April 23, 2019, after the offensive lineman's time with the Denver Broncos and Atlanta Falcons.
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