The San Francisco 49ers have some contracts to hand out in the offseason and they are slowly making progress on shaping the roster for years to come. That future may or may not include wide receiver Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis who are both searching for new contracts. It will include Colin Kaepernick who signed an extension and it will also include running back Kendall Hunter who now puts the future of Frank Gore in jeopardy.
The 49ers announced they have re-signed Hunter to a one-year contract extension that keeps him on the roster through 2015. Hunter was approaching free agency and things were looking grim after he tore his ACL in training camp which put his future in jeopardy. The reserve running back is certainly talented after racking up 1,202 yards on 262 carries in 43 games. He had been the change-of-pace back for Frank Gore and very valuable to the 49ers' roster.
The news of Hunter's extension comes after the news that Marcus Lattimore is considering retiring and ending his attempt at a comeback. ESPN.com reports that the running back is considering his options after experiencing knee soreness following his return to the field just a week ago. San Francisco has been very patient with Lattimore, hoping the one-time Heisman candidate could return to his college form. The future was looking bright after the running back made his return to practice and got solid reviews, but now the attempt might be coming to an end.
This makes the running back rotation for San Francisco down to at least two players for 2015. The 49ers have rookie Carlos Hyde who is slowly working his way into the offense and Hunter who could easily handle a big work load. The jury is still out on where Gore ranks in terms of priorities for the 49ers. The veteran running back has been a staple to the team's offense, but has an expiring contract that might mean he does not return.
Given Gore's age, he likely will not be a priority for the 49ers right away. Crabtree will take priority along with Davis who let his desire for a new contract be heard with a preseason holdout. Aldon Smith will also be looking for a deal after his option was picked up by San Francisco. If Gore is willing to take a smaller deal, he could easily remain in San Francisco. However, if the running back is eager for more money, things could get complicated.