SANTA CLARA – The 49ers on Tuesday removed running back Jerick McKinnon from the physically-unable-to-perform list.
McKinnon now is eligible to practice with his teammates for the first time since sustaining a torn ACL in his right knee on a non-contact play one week before the start of the 2018 regular season.
McKinnon appeared to be on schedule to practice when training camp opened July. 27, but he sustained a “flare-up,” according to coach Kyle Shanahan, and required more time for rehabilitation.
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SIGN UP HERE A year ago, the 49ers viewed McKinnon with his dual-threat capabilities as a runner and receiver, as the center piece of the offense after signing him to a four-year, $30 million contract.
Now, McKinnon will enter the competition for playing time in the team’s backfield, joining Tevin Coleman, Matt Breida and Raheem Mostert.
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McKinnon will not participate in the 49ers' exhibition opener on Saturday against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium.