49ers Sign Free-Agent Wide Receiver Keshawn Martin
The San Francisco 49ers made an attempt to reinforce their receiving corps by signing free-agent wideout and return man Keshawn Martin to a two-year deal, per a report. The move fills up the vacant roster spot left by the retirement of offensive tackle Anthony Davis.
The San Francisco 49ers need all the help they can get, and they hope wide receiver Keshawn Martin can help provide a spark.
San Francisco signed Martin to a two-year deal on Tuesday, per NFL insider Rand Getlin.
I'm told WR/KR Keshawn Martin has signed a 2-year deal with the #49ers. Averaged 11.2 yards per reception last year with the #Patriots.
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) September 27, 2016
Martin also doubles as a return-man option and had some good stats, per Getlin:
New #49ers WR/KR Keshawn Martin has broken a 70+ yard kickoff or punt return in three of his four seasons in the NFL (with a long of 87).
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) September 27, 2016
San Francisco had a roster spot available, following the retirement of offensive tackle Anthony Davis on Monday.
Martin, a former fourth-round draft pick of the Houston Texans in 2012, spent last year with the New England Patriots.
He has 62 receptions for 685 yards and five touchdowns over his four-year NFL career.
San Francisco’s offense currently ranks 29th in the league with just 876 yards gained. The Niners passing game has also generated a lowly 526 yards, which stands at No. 30 overall.
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The 49ers also added wide receiver and return man Jeremy Kerley earlier this season, although Kerley has primarily been featured in a slot role on offense. The 5-foot-10, 190-pound Martin could also see time here if necessary.
It will be interesting to watch how 49ers head coach Chip Kelly utilizes his newest weapon and whether or not Martin can make a significant impact for an offense in desperate need of help.
All statistics, records and accolades courtesy of ESPN.com, Pro-Football-Reference.com and Sports-Reference.com unless otherwise indicated.