The 49ers have the top fullback in the NFL in Kyle Juszczyk, so you'd think they're set at the position. However, that didn't stop them from reportedly trying to add another this past week.
ESPN's Field Yates reported Friday that San Francisco placed a waiver claim on former Chiefs fullback John Lovett. It was unsuccessful, though, as the Green Bay Packers had a higher waiver priority and claimed him with it.
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NFL teams typically only keep one fullback on the 53-man roster, so you might be wondering why the 49ers had interest in adding Lovett, particularly after signing undrafted free agent Josh Hokit, who also plays the position.
The answer likely lies in Lovett's versatility -- a trait 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan highly values.
Before joining Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2019, Lovett played quarterback at Princeton University. Kansas City converted him into a hybrid fullback who could potentially contribute at running back and tight end (h/t 49ers Web Zone).
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San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers continue to pop up in rumors regarding free-agent tight ends, despite having George Kittle, Ross Dwelley and sixth-round draft pick Charlie Woerner already on the roster.
San Francisco wants to lighten Kittle's load and give him the occasional breather this coming season, which is where that reported interest likely derives from.
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