The 49ers have shown some interest in Jets free-agent running back Leon Washington, according to a report on Pro Football Talk. Citing a league source, the site says the two sides have spoken but that no visit has been planned. Washington played for offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye, who was the Jets running backs coach from 2006-2008.
Washington has been a change-of-pace runner, who averaged 5.9 yards a carry in that role in 2008. He also has been a steady return man, a role the 49ers badly want to fill this offseason. In 2008, he averaged a very solid 10.4 yards on punt returns and 25.6 yards on kickoffs, including a 94-yard touchdown. In 2007 he returned three kickoffs for touchdowns. In October, however, Washington suffered a gruesome, Joe Theisman-like fibula fracture in a game in Oakland. Teammates said the bone broke through the skin. That injury obviously is the biggest question mark for the 27-year-old running back heading into 2010.
Washington, 5-8, 195 pounds, is a restricted free agent, and the Jets have tendered him at a second-round level. That means New York can match any offers he receives or must be compensated with a second-round pick if he signs elsewhere. Other teams are believed to be interested.
Given the 49ers apparent interest in Washington, I contacted fullback Tony Richardson, a long-time protege of Raye's and an unrestricted free agent this year. Richardson said he has indeed spoken with Raye, but that it was more of a friendly conversation than a business discussion. The Jets are trying to retain Richardson, who said he wants to play one more season.
-- Matt Barrows
