The San Francisco 49ers added another young dual-threat runner to their growing list of running backs on Saturday, as the team signed rookie running back and slot receiver Austin Walker after a positive rookie minicamp tryout. The signing was first reported by Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle:
49ers signed former Rice RB Austin Walter following a successful rookie minicamp tryout, per a source @RiceFootball #NFL #49ers
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) May 4, 2019
Walter played four seasons as a running back, wide receiver and kick returner for Rice University, and earned All Conference USA Honorable Mention Honors in both 2017 and 2018.
Walter didn't receive an invitation to the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine, but he did attend the 2019 NFL Regional Combine Invitational in Kansas City, where he ran an impressive 4.49-second 40-yard dash.
Walter's 4.49 40-yard dash would have tied for sixth among running backs at the #NFLCombine
That's faster than several notable names:
— The Roost (@AtTheRoost) March 10, 2019
- Trayveon Williams
- Damien Harris
- Devin Singletary
- Benny Snell#GoOwls https://t.co/SAVb8tY3XM
Walter totalled 1,089 yards from scrimmage and six total scores in 2018, including over 500 yards both on the ground and through the air. The red-shirt senior also averaged 27.3 yards over 18 kick returns.
Walter's versatility was likely a factor in his signing, as each of the 49ers' top running backs -- Jerick McKinnon, Matt Breida and Tevin Coleman -- are dangerous receivers as well as runners. With the recent draft additions of wide receivers Deebo Samuel and Jalen Hurd, along with the free-agent signing of wideout Jordan Matthews, Walter will need to carve out a role in San Francisco's backfield and on special teams in order to make the 49ers' final 53-man roster.
Update: Walter announced the signing via Instagram.