Running back Raheem Mostert’s future with the 49ers isn’t determined quite yet. The team Thursday issued a one-year tender for the restricted free agent, but Mostert’s agent tweeted Friday that it’s not a done deal the 26-year-old will just sign the one-year tender.
It sounds like the 49ers were ready to offer Mostert a multi-year contract, but the running back will instead see what his market is as a restricted free agent.
The one-year tender gives Mostert the ability to negotiate contracts with other teams. If he receives another offer, the 49ers right of first refusal and can match that offer sheet to retain Mostert. San Francisco receives draft pick compensation should they not match the offer.
This makes sense for both sides.
Mostert wants to see what kind of value he has before inking a multi-year deal with the 49ers. He has until April 19 to make his decision, so there’s no harm in testing the free agent waters when the legal tampering period opens March 11.
San Francisco will surely aim to keep the four-year veteran. He’s a dynamite special teams player who proved a valuable asset in the backfield for the 49ers last year. He racked up 261 yards and a touchdown on 34 carries before breaking his forearm in Week 9 against the Raiders.
Mostert is an important player for the 49ers in multiple facets. His status will be worth monitoring because San Francisco won’t want to lose him in free agency.
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