© Sergio Estrada | 2017 Aug 19
The 49ers are re-signing defensive tackle Chris Jones, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Jones last played for the 49ers in 2016, starting six games. He was placed on the injured reserve ahead of the 2017 season following hip and groin surgery, and spent a month this offseason as a member of the Jets after his contract with the 49ers expired.
#49ers are re-signing DT Chris Jones, source says. Jones played six games with them in 2016 but landed on IR last year. Jones is fully healthy now following hip and groin surgery.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 22, 2018
Jones, 28, was a sixth round pick by the Houston Texans in 2013, and has started 28 games during his four-year career, including 22 with the New England Patriots in 2013-2014 combined. Jones was a first-team All-American at Bowling Green in 2012.
The signing is curious on its face as interior lineman would appear to be one of the 49ers’ deepest position groups, and one that includes three recent first-round picks (DeForest Buckner, Arik Armstead, and Solomon Thomas). Earl Mitchell is also a projected starter at defensive tackle, and D.J. Jones has been one of the 49ers’ best defensive players so far this preseason.