The second Spring League Showcase game is taking place this weekend in Napa, and some familiar names will be on hand. We learned on Monday that running backs Anthony Dixon and Fred Jackson will be taking part, and now we have another familiar face.
Former San Francisco 49ers running back Glen Coffee is set to begin his comeback attempt at the Showcase game, according to Pro Football Talk. Coffee retired from the NFL in 2010 after one season as Frank Gore’s backup. After spending four years in the Army, Coffee filed for reinstatement to the NFL this past April. His agent said he is attempting a comeback, and this would appear to mark his first game action since the announcement.
Coffee announced his return in late April, which was shortly after the Spring League had their first Showcase game, in West Virginia. Coffee is likely in fantastic physical shape from his time with Army Special Forces. However, one has to wonder what it will be like for him to take hits in a football game again.
NFL training camps start in the next couple weeks, so this provides an opportunity for Coffee and the rest of the players to try and convince a team they are worth a flier. There is a mix of veterans and rookies taking part, and the best chance for most of them is likely after an injury or two in training camp.
If you’re in the Bay Area and want to check out some of the ex-49ers in action, you can get tickets here. Prices range from $35 to $150, and kids 10 and under get in free.