When 49ers receiver Michael Crabtree tore his Achilles, the 49ers suddenly found themselves without an offensive weapon they would have loved to keep. Now the team may be turning to Austin Collie to help fill out their wide receiving unit.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the 49ers were working out receiver Austin Collie today.
While Collie wouldn't be filling Crabtree's specific role, he adds a weapon that the 49ers need very much. As it stands, Anquan Boldin would be the team's top receiver. Aside from not being with the team a season ago, Boldin also lacks great speed at this point in his career. Collie would add some speed to a unit that needs it to stretch the defense.
The wrinkle is that Austin Collie has had a number of severe concussion injuries since entering the league. The veteran receiver even told the USA TODAY that he'd be willing to sign a waiver to play in the NFL once again. Dedication? No doubt. Good decision? Maybe not.
The 49ers will likely base their decision on a couple of factors. Is Austin Collie athletically ready to contribute to the team? If he is, they'll ask themselves, will he be able to stay on the field?
