Report: The 49ers could bring back Trent Taylor as a potential return man

Ray-Ray McCloud is no longer in the fold, so the Niners are on the prowl for a returner

NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco reported that the San Francisco 49ers are discussing a possible reunion with a free-agent wide receiver and returner. Ray-Ray McCloud is an Atlanta Falcon, meaning there’s a vacancy on special teams.

Last year, Deebo Samuel occasionally served as the team’s kick returner. But exposing Deebo to more unnecessary hits isn’t worth the reward for better field position.

Ronnie Bell was also a returner, but holding onto the ball and fielding it cleanly were issues for the rookie from Michigan. There’s also no guarantee that Bell will make the roster. Running back Jordan Mason could return kicks, but the door is open for Taylor as a punt returner.

Taylor turns 30 at the end of April. In 2023, he was the Chicago Bears punt returner, averaging 8.2 yards per return. He was even better in 2022 with the Cincinnati Bengals, averaging 10.3 yards per return on 33 attempts.

Coach Kyle Shanahan has consistently emphasized the importance of versatility in his receivers. Despite being a primary return man for the past two seasons, Taylor only has six receptions in the past two seasons.

The 49ers’ interest in Taylor signals they weren’t able to identify a sure-handed returner in the NFL Draft. That could change, as there’s no rush to sign Taylor.