Westbrook to Don 49ers Uniform

After second-string running back Glen Coffee retired last week, the San Francisco 49ers wasted no time signing a new guy to back up Frank Gore on the depth chart. Former Eagle and two-time pro-bowler Brian Westbrook has signed on with the 'Niners to be the #2 player in that backfield, or at least that's what everyone is anticipating. Westbrook was also being pursued by the St. Louis Rams and the Washington Redskins, who have his old field general Donovan McNabb.

When it comes down to it, though, Westbrook isn't much more than a big name anymore. And he won't be for much longer. From a fantasy standpoint, it has been a rapid drop-off for a guy who, two years ago, was a very solid producer on anyone's team. He's virtually useless to your squad now, and I wouldn't even touch him in any draft. If he's a free agent after the draft, go for it. But I wouldn't spend a pick on him unless it's literally one of the last two or three rounds. The only potential of Westbrook making big contributions to a fantasy squad is an injury to Frank Gore -- which isn't all that unlikely, given Gore's history. Still, you can't go in and get a guy who needs someone to get hurt before he can contribute. Don't bother with him. He might make some plays on third down coming out the backfield, and I guess maybe he merits some consideration in point-per-reception leagues. But in your standard, touchdown-heavy scoring system, Westbrook is just another waiver wire, second-string running back that likely will never break your starting lineup.