The 49ers have talked to Browns punt and kick returner Josh Cribbs, according to a report by the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
At least five teams have shown interest in Cribbs, who was one of the most effective punt returners last season. Last year's punt returner, Ted Ginn is a free agent and is not expected to return while backup Kyle Williams will be coming off a torn ACL injury.
Cribbs has great size at 6-1, 215 pounds and has been consistent throughout his career. In 2011, he had a career high 41 receptions for 518 yards, but only a paltry seven receptions for 63 yards in 2012. Last year, the Browns underwent a system change on offense for their 2012 draft pick Brandon Weeden. They also chose to play the younger wideouts in their offense.
If Cribbs signed with the 49ers, he would instantly become the team's kick and punt returner without question. He was a Pro Bowler in 2007, 2009 and 2012 for his efforts of having at least 400 punt return yards.
Cribbs could also contribute as another weapon on offense and is effective in the open field. Greg Roman potentially would use him for reverses and screen plays to spread opposing defenses. The depth for the 49ers at WR would be upgraded with flexibility for Roman's playbook. Not only would Cribbs be an upgrade, but he's already familiar with special teams coach Brad Seely, who coached Cribbs for two seasons in Cleveland.
The 49ers will need to look at their wide receivers behind Michael Crabtree with the uncertainty of who becomes their second wideout. Randy Moss tweeted his farewell, implying that he will not return next year. Like Williams, Mario Manningham is also coming off a torn ACL injury after going down against the Seattle Seahwks in week 16. The 2012 first-round pick A.J. Jenkins failed to record a reception last season.
Comments