The San Francisco 49ers may be gearing up to bring back recently-released cornerback Eli Apple.
Apple, a first-round pick of the New York Giants in the 2016 draft, was released by the 49ers on Sunday as part of a handful of roster moves that brought in running back Khalil Herbert and defensive end Titus Leo. According to the NFL’s transaction wire on Tuesday he was in Santa Clara for a visit during the team’s off day from practice.
A visit on the off day could mean the 49ers are in the process of getting him re-signed to their 90-man offseason roster. With a new week of practice beginning Wednesday and some of the team’s injury issues potentially clearing up following their off day, it may mean the team can let a player go and bring Apple back into the fold.
They may also just be checking in on the recently-released veteran in case they need to add depth at CB.
While Apple was a long shot from making the 53-man roster at the end of August, having a veteran like him in the building on the practice squad holds value. He spent all of last season on the 49ers’ practice squad after joining the club early in training camp. The 49ers elevated him for two games where he mostly contributed on special teams. Bringing him back wouldn’t be the craziest idea.
Apple has played in 104 games with 82 starts in his 10-year career. He’s hauled in six interceptions with 61 pass breakups, while recording 384 tackles and 71 tackles for loss.
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This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers may be looking to re-sign disappointing former 1st-round pick
Reporting by Kyle Madson, Niners Wire / Niners Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Kyle Madson, Niners Wire | USA TODAY Network
