The San Francisco 49ers have acquired linebacker Gerald Hodges from the Minnesota Vikings, according to NFL Network's Rand Getlin. The team reportedly was going to waive Nick Easton, but Adam Caplan later adjusted his report to suggest the team was trying to move him. Matt Maiocco is now reporting the deal is indeed Hodges for Easton.
Fooch's update 1:15 p.m.: Adam Schefter is reporting the 49ers are dealing Easton and a 6th round pick.
Hodges was playing middle linebacker for the Vikings, but Eric Kendricks was viewed as the future. This move would seem like he will provide some depth inside for the 49ers. I am not entirely sure why, although it could be that the team is not happy with Michael Wilhoite alongside NaVorro Bowman. Wilhoite was jawing a bit with Jim Tomsula after a bad penalty early in Sunday's loss to the Packers. We have also heard Bowman also say he is still getting back to his former self, so the team could also feel Shayne Skov is not enough depth.
Hodges was a converted safety coming out of college, and is listed at 6'2, 236 pounds on the Vikings roster page. Here is what Pro Football Focus had on Hodges. I have emailed our Vikings blog for more info on the linebacker.
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