SANTA CLARA, California -- Braylon Edwards signed a $3.5 million, one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday to add a proven playmaker to the wide receivers.
Edwards' agent, Ben Dogra, confirmed the deal to The Associated Press, less than an hour before San Francisco's free agents could take the field for the first time under new coach Jim Harbaugh — who, like Edwards, is a former Michigan man.
The Niners made an announcement about getting Edwards shortly after practiced started. They hoped he would get on the field alongside quarterback Alex Smith at some point Thursday night, but he wasn't outside for the beginning of practice.
Edwards also tweeted that he agreed to a deal with the 49ers, who will certainly count on the proven wideout to make an immediate contribution for a franchise that hasn't had a winning record or reached the playoffs since 2002.
Michael Crabtree is sidelined at the start of training camp for the third straight year, nursing a left foot injury sustained during offseason workouts that has him sporting a walking boot. Crabtree has yet to live up to the hype around him after he was drafted 10th overall in 2009 out of Texas Tech. After a 71-day stalemate between Crabtree and the team, he agreed to a six-year deal with $17 million guaranteed.
Crabtree had 55 catches for six touchdowns and 741 yards last season. Josh Morgan and Ted Ginn Jr. are the two other regulars back from 2010, though neither has demonstrated the ability to carry the offense and consistently take pressure off running back Frank Gore.
"It's official," Edwards said. "We have moved to the bay. I'm a proud member of the San Francisco 49ers."
Dogra was hopeful his client would be on the field with the rest of the Niners' offense Thursday.
The 28-year-old Edwards made 53 receptions for 904 yards and seven touchdowns last season in his second year with the New York Jets. He spent his first five NFL seasons with Cleveland, making the Pro Bowl in 2007.
"He's really excited about the offense with Jim Harbaugh," Dogra said. "He has a legitimate chance to play early and often. He's looking for a fresh start and felt good about his conversations with Coach Harbaugh and (general manager) Trent Baalke. That's what made the biggest difference for him. They also have the chance to win this year and are expected to compete for the division. If he does well, hopefully there's an opportunity to prolong his career there."
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