Per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, former 49ers slot receiver Trent Taylor is signing with the Cincinnati Bengals. Taylor had an immediate rapport with Jimmy Garoppolo during the tail-end of his rookie year, but injuries have taken their toll on the former Niners punt returner.
Taylor was never a burner, but he was quick enough to gain separation on the majority of routes under ten yards. Fast forward to 2020, after a slew of injuries — including five foot surgeries — and Taylor was a shell of his former self.
Taylor finished 2020 with only ten receptions on 21 targets. It had gotten to the point towards the end of the 2020 season where Taylor was a healthy scratch for the Niners over the likes of River Cracraft.
He did average 12.4 yards per punt return, so perhaps he’ll add value to the Bengals, who just lost their version of Taylor in Alex Erickson.
It’ll be an uphill battle for Taylor, as Cincy has four spots locked in between Ja’Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd, Tee Higgins, and Auden Tate.
Best of luck to Trent.
