Justin Melo of The Draft Network reports that the San Francisco 49ers conducted a virtual interview with former UCLA running back Carson Steele.
.@UCLAFootball RB @CarsonSteele30 rushed for 847 yards + 6 TDs 2023. Teams see a versatile chess piece that can play RB, FB or "move" TE.
In-person visits #Chiefs, #Chargers, #Raiders. #Colts local. Virtuals #Bengals, #Dolphins, #49ers.@TheDraftNetwork:https://t.co/klhPMfUGVP
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) April 19, 2024
Dane Brugler of The Athletic recently assessed Steele as a priority free agent. After two impressive seasons at Ball State, the running back transferred to UCLA, where he played his final collegiate season.
"It was a blessing to enter the transfer portal and attend such a great university like UCLA," Steele recently told Melo.
During his senior year in 2023, Steele carried the football 167 times for 847 yards and six rushing touchdowns, adding 17 receptions for 163 yards and two receiving touchdowns through 12 games, per Sports Reference. He averaged 5.1 yards per carry at UCLA and throughout his collegiate career.
In 2022, Steele racked up 1,556 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns on 289 carries, adding 166 receiving yards and a receiving score. While his production diminished with the Bruins, Steele was satisfied with his numbers for the Westwood-based program after receiving significantly fewer carries than his previous season.
"I went out there and proved I could play at a high level in the Pac-12," Steele said. "I was happy with the amount of yards I rushed for at UCLA. I was efficient with my opportunities. I showed everyone that I could play at a higher level."
In three seasons, Steele amassed 3,294 rushing yards on 648 attempts and 26 rushing touchdowns, adding 58 receptions for 486 yards and four receiving touchdowns.
NFL teams are eyeing Steele as a running back and fullback at the pro level, possibly even inserting him into the tight end spot if needed.
"Honestly, whatever gets me on the field, that's what it's going to be," Steele remarked. "I'm just excited to learn anything and everything. I want to play on special teams as well. I just want a chance to get out there and help the team."
Visit our pre-draft tracker for a comprehensive overview of all reported formal and informal meetings between the 49ers and prospective NFL rookies.
The 2024 NFL Draft will take place in Detroit, Michigan, from Thursday, April 25, through Saturday, April 27.
