Jerick McKinnon’s return to practice didn’t go well, according to general manager John Lynch. Lynch told KNBR 680 in San Francisco that McKinnon suffered a setback in practice, calling it “not encouraging.”
McKinnon tore his ACL a week before the start of the 2018 regular season after signing a four-year deal worth $30 million with $11.7 million guaranteed.
Now the 49ers have a decision to make. McKinnon is done for the season if he goes on IR prior to Saturday’s deadline for final roster cuts. If he’s on the initial 53-man roster and then goes on IR, he’s eligible to return in Week 9.
There’s also a scenario where the 49ers cut the 27-year-old without ever seeing him play in their uniform. He’d cost his full $5.75 million against the cap this season and be off the books starting next year.
San Francisco is fortunate to have depth at running back with Matt Breida and Tevin Coleman, who joined the team this offseason. It’s now unlikely they’ll keep four running backs on the roster if McKinnon is unable to play this year.
