49ers sign Shayne Skov to practice squad, make Patrick Willis, Alfonso Smith transactions official

The San Francisco 49ers officially announced Patrick Willis would be moved to injured reserve, and the team signed running back Alfonso Smith. Additionally, the team announced they signed former Stanford linebacker Shayne Skov to the practice squad.

The 49ers signed Skov as an undrafted free agent, and included him on their practice squad early in the season. They released him from the practice squad on September 15, and he signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad on September 24. The Bucs released him from their practice squad on October 21, and he has been a free agent since.

The 49ers inside linebackers include Michael Wilhoite, Chris Borland and Nick Moody. NaVorro Bowman is on the PUP list, and the team is still trying to figure out when he will return to practice. In the meantime, they need an extra body on hand in case there are any more injuries to the position. Ideally the 49ers never need to promote Skov to the 53-man roster, but it is important to have another option available.

Earlier today, we took a look at the Alfonso Smith addition, and what it might mean. Bruce Ellington is dealing with an ankle sprain, and his status is up in the air for this Sunday. If he cannot play, Perrish Cox and Carlos Hyde would likely split up his return duties. If that is the case, it helps to have another running back option.