49ers free agents: Ricky Jean Francois signs with Colts

The San Francisco 49ers roster turnover continues as defensive lineman Ricky Jean Francois agreed to terms on a four year contract with the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts are giving him as much as $22 million over the course of the deal, which likely was well north of where the 49ers were willing to go. Considering they signed Glenn Dorsey to a two year, $7 million deal, this is not surprising.

Ricky Jean only made a few starts in his 49ers career, serving as an injury replacement all along the line. He reportedly drew a lot of interest given his versatility along the line. At one point or another he played all three positions on the 49ers defensive line, and could very well adjust to 4-3 spots as well.

RJF joins Delanie Walker, Isaac Sopoaga and Dashon Goldson as unrestricted free agents to depart. The 49ers likely find themselves in position for several compensatory draft picks in the 2014 NFL Draft. The 49ers signed Glenn Dorsey, which subtracts one from that. However, if the 49ers were to sign guys like Nnamdi Asomugha or Charles Woodson, the equation would not be impacted since they were released.

It sounds like Glenn Dorsey will initially get time at nose tackle, but he could turn into more of a utility guys in the RIcky Jean mold. Matt Barrows spoke with Jim Harbaugh earlier today, and Coach Harbaugh had some interesting comments about Dorsey's role:

Yeah, I think the way Vic (Fangio) and Jimmy Tomsula do it, he's the nose with Ian Williams. Then if Ian comes along, he's going to get quite a few of those reps and Glenn can be an end as well and take some of those snaps as well. So we have high hopes and expectations for his contribution.

And one last time: