SANTA CLARA, Calif. ā July 30, 2025 ā The San Francisco 49ers may be eyeing depth at the running back position ahead of the preseason, as the team hosted veteran RBs Jeff Wilson Jr. and DāErnest Johnson for workouts on Tuesday, league sources confirmed.
Wilson, a familiar face in the Bay Area, spent five seasons with the 49ers from 2018 to 2022 before reuniting with former 49ers assistant Mike McDaniel in Miami. Johnson, a versatile back known for his time with the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars, also took part in the session.
NFL Networkās Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport were first to report the dual workout.
š Jeff Wilson Jr.: A Possible Reunion?
Jeff Wilson Jr., 28, began his career as an undrafted free agent with San Francisco and developed into a reliable rotational back under Kyle Shanahan. He logged over 2,100 yards from scrimmage and 18 touchdowns in a 49ers uniform before being traded to the Dolphins midway through the 2022 season.
Injuries hampered his time in Miami, but Wilson still flashed explosiveness and familiarity with Shanahan-style offenses. His understanding of the 49ersā playbook and past production makes him an appealing option, especially as the team navigates uncertain depth behind starter Christian McCaffrey.
š§© DāErnest Johnson: A Proven Plug-and-Play Option
DāErnest Johnson, 29, has made a name for himself as a dependable, downhill runner with receiving upside. He shined in 2021 with the Browns when pressed into starting duty, notching 534 rushing yards and three touchdowns in limited appearances.
Most recently with the Jaguars, Johnson provided depth behind Travis Etienne and contributed on special teams. His experience and versatility could offer the Niners a dependable option in a backup role or on third downs.
š„ Why Now?
San Franciscoās running back room currently features McCaffrey, Elijah Mitchell, Jordan Mason, and rookie Isaac Guerendo, but durability concerns linger ā especially with Mitchell, whoās battled a string of injuries since entering the league.
Bringing in seasoned veterans like Wilson and Johnson suggests that the 49ers are evaluating contingency plans in case of injury or inconsistency behind their All-Pro workhorse.
š§ Familiarity is Key
Wilsonās history with both the organization and Shanahanās offensive system gives him a leg up in terms of potential roster integration. His physical running style and ability to contribute in pass protection could be especially valuable in a locker room with championship aspirations.
Johnson, while new to the scheme, has shown adaptability and toughness ā traits that Shanahan values highly in his running backs.
š Whatās Next?
Thereās no immediate word on whether either player will be signed, but with the 49ers set to open preseason play soon, a decision could come quickly based on health assessments and performance in camp. With roster spots tightening, veterans will need to prove they can contribute immediately and on special teams.
šØ Final Word
The 49ersā workouts with Jeff Wilson Jr. and DāErnest Johnson show that the team is taking no chances with backfield depth as they gear up for another Super Bowl run. Whether one of these veterans returns (or arrives) in red and gold remains to be seen ā but the competition in camp just got more interesting.
Need a breakdown of current RB depth charts, camp injury updates, or comparisons between Wilson and Johnson? Let me know ā Iāve got you covered.
