The 49ers could receive a boost on defense in their final four regular-season games after signing former All-Pro linebacker Eric Kendricks to their practice squad on Nov. 26.
Kendricks, a 10-year NFL veteran, is not unfamiliar with the 49ers’ organization. He agreed to a one-year contract with San Francisco back in 2024, only to back out at the last minute and instead sign with the Dallas Cowboys.
Kendricks recorded nine tackles for the Cowboys in their 30-24 loss to the 49ers during Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season, and finished the season with 138 total tackles. On Monday, he reflected on his decision to sign with the 49ers’ practice squad after rebuffing their previous offer a year and a half ago.
“I just wanted to do what felt right, and a lot of things didn’t feel right so I just waited,” Kendricks told reporters after 49ers practice in Santa Clara. “I’ve always respected the organization, the coaching staff and the way they play defense, when I got an opportunity to be part of the team, I took it.”
The 49ers signed Kendricks after suffering numerous injuries at linebacker this season, including a season-ending ankle injury to Fred Warner and a high ankle sprain for his backup, Tatum Bethune. General manager John Lynch has mentioned Warner’s return timetable this season is hopeful at best.
Kendricks gave his respect on the 49ers’ “next-man-up mentality” in managing injuries.
“I’ve watched everybody kind of step up and the way they’ve responded,” Kendricks told reporters. “It was inspiring to watch, through all the adversity they’ve faced, they seem to just like to fight.”
The 49ers have three regular-season home games remaining and are in the hunt for an NFC playoff spot going into Week 15. Perhaps fans could see Kendricks suit up in the red and gold for the first time on Sunday when the 49ers host the Tennessee Titans at Levi’s Stadium.
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