The 49ers have secured the services of running back Patrick Taylor with a signing.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 49ers have bolstered their running back options by signing former Packers reserve, Patrick Taylor. Taylor’s addition adds depth to an already crowded running back lineup, likely serving as a contender during training camp as he seeks to carve out a larger role in the team’s plans.
Taylor entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent for the Packers in 2020 after an impressive collegiate career at Memphis, where he accumulated nearly 2,000 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns across two standout seasons. However, a foot injury sidelined him for the latter part of his senior year. Despite this setback, Green Bay took a chance on him, though he spent his rookie season on the reserve/non-football injury list before landing on the practice squad in 2021.
His sophomore season saw Taylor making his NFL debut in November after being promoted to the active roster, appearing in nine games and recording 89 yards rushing along with a touchdown. Over the subsequent two seasons, he played in a total of 15 games, accumulating 172 rushing yards.
Taylor’s journey saw him briefly departing Green Bay in the 2023 season. He was waived by the Packers in October after initially making their active roster. As a free agent, he joined the New England Patriots’ practice squad before being re-signed by Green Bay, where he remained for the rest of the season.
Joining the 49ers, Taylor faces stiff competition, notably from the league’s highest-paid running back, Christian McCaffrey. Elijah Mitchell and Jordan Mason, who split backup duties fairly evenly in 2023, are also returning. While Taylor brings additional receiving skills to the group, McCaffrey is also proficient in that aspect.
With this competitive environment, Taylor will strive to earn a roster spot and could potentially be retained as insurance in case of injuries to Mitchell or others.
