“I’m thankful for you”: Jeff Wilson Jr. shares parting words with 49ers fan base

Former San Francisco 49ers running back Jeff Wilson Jr. had some heartfelt parting words to share following Tuesday's trade to the Miami Dolphins.

Wilson wrote the following on Instagram:

Four years ago, you welcomed me to the Bay Area with open arms and a lot of love. I was a long way from Texas where I grew up, but you made me feel at home from day one.

Thank you to the front office, coaches, and all of the staff at the facility and stadium. The culture within the 49ers is special and it's because of the people.

To my teammates .... my brothers .... our bond is forever. From the Super Bowl to dog days in camp to just hanging out, we made amazing memories.

To the Faithful ...... Man.... What an amazing fan base. I'm thankful for you.

Know that as this new chapter begins, I'm forever grateful for the first chapter.

Signing as an undrafted free agent in 2018, Wilson spent four-and-a-half seasons with the 49ers, including eight games this season. He accumulated 1,733 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns during that time while averaging 4.4 yards per carry. The running back led the team in rushing yards in 2020. He rushed for 468 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 5.1 yards per attempt this season.

"At first, Jeff was excited," general manager John Lynch said of the conversation with Wilson to inform him of the trade. "It felt like Miami was a great spot. Obviously, he knows [head coach] Mike [McDaniel] and the crew. And then the emotions hit him, and I was able to share with him, 'Look, you're not only one of my favorite players that I've ever had the opportunity to be around, you're one of my favorite people.'"

Lynch added, "I can't say enough nice things about him. I'm proud of him, I'm happy for him, and I'm grateful for everything that he brought here."