49ers are Reuniting With WR Trent Taylor

After four years away, wide receiver Trent Taylor returns to the 49ers and helps them address a need.

Aug 11, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Trent Taylor (11) runs with / Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

A random reunion.

The San Francisco 49ers are reuniting with their former 2017 fifth round pick wide receiver Trent Taylor. The team officially announced today that Taylor is signing a one-year deal with them.

Taylor last played with the 49ers in 2020 after spending his first four years of his career for the red and gold. He would go on to play for the Cincinnati Bengals for two seasons in 2021 and 2022, then would sign with the Chicago Bears in 2023.

So, why did the 49ers bring Taylor back? It is not like they need another wide receiver, especially since Taylor hasn't caught double digit passes since being with the 49ers. Well, the 49ers have a need on special teams at both kick returner and punt returner.

Ray-Ray McCloud left the 49ers for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency. And while his departure isn't detrimental, he does leave the 49ers with a bit of a sting. McCloud had solidified that position for the 49ers for the last two seasons.

They didn't need to worry about it at all when he was available by giving them comfort, but when McCloud had to miss time, the 49ers didn't have a decent alternative. Ronnie Bell didn't install any confidence when he got snaps there, and it's not like Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk will get run there.

So, Kyle Shanahan looks to the guy who he drafted in his debut season as head coach with the hope that Taylor can give them the ease that McCloud did for his two seasons. Let's see if Taylor can make it out of training camp and cement himself as the 49ers return guy.