The San Francisco 49ers have several running backs for the coming season, but reports suggest the team will look for some additional depth this offseason. After briefly being connected to Doug Martin, the team is now apparently interested in C.J. Anderson, according to Matt Barrows.
Denver tendered the restricted free agent at the lowest level, which means if he signs an offer sheet and the Broncos choose not to match, the signing team will not have to give up any additional compensation. There is no word on why that was the case, but it would seem they are not overly concerned about keeping him. For now though, Denver at least retains the right to match any offer Anderson receivers.
Chip Kelly is a frequent user of running backs, so it is no surprise the 49ers might want to add more depth. And of course, Carlos Hyde is recovering from a foot injury. He has looked good when healthy, but his physical style is not exactly good for a lengthy career. He could end up playing a long time, but I have to think the 49ers will play the odds at the position. Right now, they have guys like Mike Davis, Shaun Draughn, DuJuan Harris, and Jarryd Hayne on the depth chart. They'll likely invest in the position, but it remains to be seen whether it will happen in the next few days, or in late April.
Anderson is not a tall guy, standing a shade over 5'8, but at a listed weight of 224 pounds, he's certainly not a little guy. Whether he would fit the Chip Kelly is something I am not entirely sure about simply due to lack of knowledge. But the more running backs the better.