While the San Francisco 49ers are still looking for at least one more wide receiver to add to the offense, the team has a brewing competition building at the running back spot. After letting Frank Gore walk away in free agency, the No. 1 spot is up for grabs. It was assumed that Carlos Hyde would be taking over in place of the veteran considering his success as a rookie. However, the 49ers added Reggie Bush and are ready to push a competition in 2015.
The addition of Bush gives the 49ers another dynamic player to work with on offense considering his rushing and pass catching abilities. The issue for Bush is his injury history which is what caused his released from the Detroit Lions. Declaring himself healthy and ready for a big season, head coach Jim Tomsula views Bush as an every-down type of running back.
"Reggie can be an every down back. He's done that in the NFL," Tomsula said, via ProFootballTalk.com. "He's a running back. He's not a gadget guy in my opinion. I think Reggie Bush is a running back. I'm really excited about Reggie joining the crew."
The addition of Bush means the 49ers have three running backs that all have seen starting time in the NFL. Hyde returns for his second season in the NFL after putting up 333 yards and four touchdowns last season after seeing a limited role behind Gore. Many view him as the future of the position, but the 49ers are adding depth as a precaution. Kendall Hunter also returns to the mix having signed a new contract despite missing last season due to injury. Tomsula appears content with letting the backs compete with one another for the starting job.
"Right now we've got three guys in the backfield that we feel great about, they're all just a little different from each other," Tomsula said. "So as we get rolling here and we throw that ball out on the field, let's take a look at what each guy does and build off that."
The 49ers are still looking to address the wide receiver position which could mean the return of a familiar face. According to general manager Trent Baalke, the team is operating under a "never say never" policy in terms of Crabtree. Credited as the best receiver left on the market, Crabtree could return at the right price. Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area is reporting that Crabtree is content taking his time in free agency as he holds out for the right deal which could come from the Miami Dolphins or the 49ers.
"As long as Michael's out there, he's just like any other (unrestricted free agent)," Baalke said, via the Sacramento Bee. "You never say never. Michael did a heck of a job with us for six years."
The 49ers have Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith who just signed a five-year, $40 million contract. They will not overspend on Crabtree which could mean the wide receiver is not destined to remain in the Bay Area.
