According to sources, the 49ers are thinking about bringing Trent Taylor back as a potential return man.
Kyle’s update at 1:56 p.m. PT: Trent Taylor has signed a one-year contract with the 49ers, the team announced. We’ll update the contract information as it’s available. That will inform us whether the Niners have guaranteed Taylor a spot on the roster. According to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area, the San Francisco 49ers are considering reuniting with a free-agent wide receiver and returner. Ray-Ray McCloud is an Atlanta Falcon, hence there is a vacancy on special teams.
Last year, Deebo Samuel occasionally served as the team’s kick returner. However, exposing Deebo to more unwanted blows is not worth the payoff of improved field position. Ronnie Bell was also a returner, but the Michigan rookie struggled to hold onto the ball and field it properly. There is also no certainty Bell will make the roster. Jordan Mason, a running back, might return kicks, but Taylor has an opportunity to return punts.
Taylor turns thirty at the end of April. In 2023, he was the Chicago Bears’ punt returner, averaging 8.2 yards. He performed even better in 2022 for the Cincinnati Bengals, averaging 10.3 yards per return on 33 attempts. Coach Kyle Shanahan has repeatedly underlined the value of variety with his receivers. Despite being the primary return man for the past two seasons, Taylor has only six receptions.
The 49ers’ interest in Taylor suggests they were unable to find a sure-handed returner in the NFL draft. This could change, as there is no rush to sign Taylor.