The San Francisco 49ers head into 2014 training camp with LaMichael James as their primary return man, but they will have several players competing for his job. One player that is a bit of a long-shot, but could surprise, is wide receiver Devon Wylie. The 49ers signed Wylie to their practice squad in December, and then signed him to a reserve/future contract in January.
Wylie entered the NFL in 2012 when he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs. He was a fourth round pick, but the change in coaching and football ops in 2013 resulted in his release at the beginning of the season. After his time with the Chiefs, but prior to signing with the 49ers, Wylie spent time on the Cardinals, Steelers, and Titans practice squads. He spent two weeks on the Titans 53-man roster before being released in late November.
Wylie is an undersized receiver, measuring in at 5'9, 187 pounds at the Combine. While small, he brings serious speed, running a 4.36 40. He appears to be best suited as a slot receiver, who still needs to refine some of his technique. The biggest drawback for him coming out of college was health. He dealt with numerous injuries during his college years, so durability will always be a concern.
Wylie entered the NFL in 2012 when he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs. He was a fourth round pick, but the change in coaching and football ops in 2013 resulted in his release at the beginning of the season. After his time with the Chiefs, but prior to signing with the 49ers, Wylie spent time on the Cardinals, Steelers, and Titans practice squads. He spent two weeks on the Titans 53-man roster before being released in late November.
Wylie is an undersized receiver, measuring in at 5'9, 187 pounds at the Combine. While small, he brings serious speed, running a 4.36 40. He appears to be best suited as a slot receiver, who still needs to refine some of his technique. The biggest drawback for him coming out of college was health. He dealt with numerous injuries during his college years, so durability will always be a concern.