On Monday afternoon, the San Francisco 49ers agreed to terms with free agent running back Brian Westbrook, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles.
The move became necessary after Glen Coffee, the Niners' 2009 second round pick, abruptly retired. Westbrook should have a great chance to backup Frank Gore in San Francisco, and could become a key third down back for the Niners.
Last year, Coffee had only 83 rushes for 226 yards and one touchdown. However, if Niners' coach Mike Singletary wants to keep Frank Gore healthy the entire season, having Westbrook available could increase the touches from the RB2 position in San Francisco.
While Westbrook is probably not a fantasy option for 2010, this could be a mixed bag for Gore owners. Westbrook might take some early season touches away from Gore, and even a few touchdowns, but the odds of Gore being a productive back late in the season increase dramatically with this move.
