Mostert departed San Francisco after the 2021 season, signing with the Miami Dolphins, where he has played since. However, his agent announced on Friday that the Dolphins were releasing the veteran running back.
At 32, Mostert still has plenty left in the tank. In 2023, he rushed for 1,012 yards and an impressive 18 touchdowns. His 21 total touchdowns that season matched those of the NFL Offensive Player of the Year, 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey.
Could Mostert return to the 49ers and join forces with McCaffrey? The team has some uncertainty in its running back room. Elijah Mitchell and Patrick Taylor are set to become free agents, while Jordan Mason is a restricted free agent. McCaffrey endured an injury-plagued 2024 campaign, appearing in just four games.
San Francisco also has Isaac Guerendo, who was a fourth-round pick last year. The rookie showed promise when filling in for an injured McCaffrey and Mason, averaging five yards per carry and recording nine runs of 10 or more yards in limited action.
Still, the 49ers might look to add a veteran presence, and Mostert could be an intriguing option. Despite seeing a reduced role in Miami last season, he still showed some explosiveness, also recording nine runs of 10 or more yards.
His release was primarily a cap-related move, as the Dolphins are $12 million over the projected salary cap. Mostert also lost his starting job to De'Von Achane, finishing the season with 439 scrimmage yards and two rushing touchdowns.
The 49ers could also add a running back in the draft, as they expect to have 10 selections. Whether they turn to a familiar face in Mostert or explore other options, bolstering the backfield might be necessary this offseason.
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