49ers Shake Up Roster: New Running Back and Pass Rusher Added Before Preseason

What Just Happened?

The San Francisco 49ers made two new signings and said goodbye to two other players—all in one busy day. Think of it like a game of musical chairs, but with football players and roster spots.

The Two New Faces

1. Khalil Herbert – Running Back

• Signed to a one-year deal
• Age: 28 years old
• Last team: New York Jets (played very little in 2025)
• What he brings: Once known as a speedster (ran a 4.48-second 40-yard dash coming out of college), but injuries have slowed him down a bit
• Why now? The 49ers needed backup running back help after Jordan James broke his ribs

Important Point: Herbert isn’t here to replace Christian McCaffrey—he’s here to spell the other backups (Kaelon Black and Patrick Taylor) during preseason games when McCaffrey likely won’t play much.

2. Titus Leo – Edge Rusher / Defensive Lineman

• Size: 6’3", 245 pounds
• Drafted: 6th round by the Indianapolis Colts in 2023
• Experience: Only 4 NFL games played so far
• Most recently: On the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad (October 2025)
• Athletic testing (2023 Pro Day):
  • 40-yard dash: 4.69 seconds (very fast for his size)
  • Vertical jump: 129 inches (that’s elite—like, top-tier athletic explosion)

Important Point: The 49ers looked at other pass rushers (like Ogbo Okonkwo) but chose Leo because he’s younger and tested incredibly well athletically.

Who Left to Make Room?

To add Herbert and Leo, the 49ers had to clear two roster spots:

The Big Picture: Why These Moves Matter

1. Running back depth was thin → Jordan James (rookie) got hurt → Herbert provides insurance
2. Pass rush depth needed youth → Leo gives them a young, athletic project to develop
3. Preseason reps need bodies → Both new guys will get lots of playing time in August games
4. Roster churn is normal → Teams constantly tweak the bottom of the roster before final cuts

What Happens Next? (Numbered Steps)

1. Herbert and Leo join practice immediately – They’ll learn the playbook on the fly
2. Preseason games begin – Both will play significant snaps (starters like McCaffrey sit)
3. Coaches evaluate – Can Herbert still make plays? Can Leo translate athletic traits to football?
4. Final roster cuts (late August) – Only 53 players make the team; these two are fighting for spots
5. Practice squad possibility – If cut, Leo especially could return on the practice squad

Summary

The 49ers added veteran running back Khalil Herbert and young pass rusher Titus Leo to bolster depth before preseason. Herbert helps cover for injured Jordan James, while Leo brings rare athletic traits the coaching staff wants to develop. To make space, they released cornerback Eli Apple and waived/injured defensive lineman Mikail Kamara. Both new players will get heavy preseason action as they fight for roster spots.

FAQ

1. Will Khalil Herbert start over Christian McCaffrey?

No. McCaffrey is the clear starter. Herbert is competing with Kaelon Black and Patrick Taylor for the backup role, mainly for preseason work.

2. Why did the 49ers sign Titus Leo if he’s barely played?

Because he tested exceptionally well athletically (4.69 40-yard dash, 129" vertical at 245 lbs). The 49ers bet they can coach him up—he’s a "traits-based" signing.

3. What does "waived/injured" mean for Mikail Kamara?

It means he was hurt (carted off at practice), so the 49ers cut him but he reverts to their injured reserve if he clears waivers. He’s not free to sign elsewhere immediately.

4. Is Eli Apple gone for good?

He’s a veteran cornerback who’s played for multiple teams. He’ll likely catch on somewhere else, but the 49ers moved on to make room for younger players at other positions.

5. When do we see these guys play?

Preseason games start in early-to-mid August. That’s when Herbert and Leo will get their best chance to show they belong on the 53-man roster.