**Source: Matt Breida Returning to 49ers for Running Back Depth**
The San Francisco 49ers are reuniting with running back Matt Breida after a four-season hiatus, as confirmed by a league source to NBC Sports Bay Area on Monday night. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler first reported Breida’s return to the Bay Area.
Breida, who began his NFL career with the 49ers in 2017 during coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch’s first season, played 43 games for San Francisco. Over three seasons, he accumulated 381 carries for 1,902 yards and six touchdowns.
Following his time with the 49ers, Breida was traded in 2020 and went on to play with the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, and, most recently, the New York Giants for the past two seasons.
The Georgia Southern product thrived in Shanahan’s system, achieving a career-high 5 yards per carry and catching 67 of 89 targets for 8.4 yards per reception, along with four additional touchdowns.
San Francisco’s running back room seemed stable until rookie Isaac Guerendo suffered a significant hamstring injury, sidelining him for several weeks. With the team aiming to manage the workload of 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey, Breida provides essential depth, familiarity with the scheme, and the ability to contribute immediately.
Concerns also arise regarding Elijah Mitchell’s health, as he missed Sunday’s practice sessions, both individual drills and 11-on-11 work. Jordan Mason, Cody Schrader, and Patrick Taylor took on the reps, while McCaffrey had a scheduled rest day.
Before officially signing Breida and maintaining their roster limit at 90 players, the 49ers will need to make a corresponding move. Nevertheless, Breida, an eight-year veteran, is expected to integrate into the offense swiftly.
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