An unusually twisty rookie year could end on a positive note for former Boise State running back Jeremy McNichols.
The San Francisco 49ers announced Wednesday that it is promoting McNichols from the practice squad to the 53-man active roster. It is the first time he will be eligible to play in an NFL game. The 49ers play at the Bears at 11 a.m. MT Sunday.
McNichols was drafted in the fifth round in April by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He seemed poised for a role this season, but struggled in training camp. In four games, he rushed 24 times for 79 yards and did not have a reception
He was cut by the team in early September, but GM Jason Licht said on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” he wanted McNichols back on the practice squad.