The 49ers might’ve solved the kick return problem that’s been ailing them for several seasons. The team announced Wednesday they claimed former Rams wide receiver and return man Nsimba Webster off waivers. San Francisco had a free roster spot so the addition didn’t require a corresponding move.
Webster was an undrafted free agent signee of the Rams following the 2019 draft. He played in 21 games across two seasons there including all 16 last year. The former Eastern Washington receiver spent most of his time in Los Angeles as a return man, and only registered eight offensive snaps.
He did carve out a role on special teams as a return man. Webster 32 punts and 18 kicks for the Rams, but fell into some fumbling problems last year when he registered three of them. LA placed him on waivers Tuesday and he was claimed by San Francisco a day later.
The 49ers’ return duties the last couple seasons have been handled by Richie James, but it stands to reason the team could be looking to upgrade at that spot, especially if James earns a bigger role on offense as the No. 3 wide receiver.
Webster isn’t a lock to make the roster, but he could quickly emerge as the team’s best return man and find himself in that role come Week 1.