In a move that has sparked excitement among San Francisco 49ers fans, the team is set to welcome back a familiar face to bolster their injury-riddled roster. Jeff Wilson Jr., a dynamic running back who spent over four years with the 49ers before a three-season stint with the Miami Dolphins, is reportedly signing back with the team after a workout on July 30, 2025. This homecoming could be the spark San Francisco needs to revitalize its backfield and maintain its competitive edge.
Wilson, an undrafted free agent from North Texas in 2018, made a significant impact during his initial tenure with the 49ers. Over his time in San Francisco, he racked up an impressive 1,733 rushing yards and scored 15 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a reliable and explosive playmaker. However, midway through the 2022 season, the 49ers traded Wilson to Miami, where his production dipped. In Miami, he appeared in just 19 games over two years, accumulating 637 yards and three touchdowns. Now, at 29 years old, Wilson is poised to bring his experience and familiarity back to a 49ers team in desperate need of depth at running back.
The 49ers’ backfield has been hit hard by injuries in recent weeks, leaving the team scrambling for healthy options. Ameer Abdullah, who worked out alongside Wilson on July 30 and subsequently signed with the team, suffered a rib injury during the preseason opener against Denver on August 9, 2025. Additionally, Isaac Guerendo (shoulder) and Jordan James (broken finger) are sidelined, thinning out an already strained roster. This leaves San Francisco with only Christian McCaffrey, Corey Kiner, Patrick Taylor Jr., and the recently signed Ke’Shawn Vaughn as healthy running back options.
Wilson’s return is a strategic move for the 49ers, who are looking to stabilize their offense and maintain their reputation as a powerhouse in the NFL. His familiarity with the team’s system, combined with his proven track record, makes him a valuable addition. During his earlier years with the 49ers, Wilson demonstrated his ability to break tackles, find gaps, and contribute as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. His 15 touchdowns in San Francisco highlight his nose for the end zone, a quality the team will undoubtedly rely on as they navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
As the 49ers prepare for the 2025 season, Wilson’s return signals a potential resurgence for a team determined to overcome adversity. With a talented roster led by stars like Christian McCaffrey, the addition of a seasoned veteran like Wilson could provide the depth and firepower needed to keep San Francisco’s playoff hopes alive. Fans are eager to see if Wilson can recapture the magic of his earlier years and help lead the 49ers back to glory.