49ers expect to sign Alfred Morris

The San Francisco 49ers intend to sign free-agent running back Alfred Morris, pending a physical, head coach Kyle Shanahan announced Monday.

Once signed, Morris would be reunited with Shanahan, who was his offensive coordinator with the Washington Redskins during his first two NFL seasons in 2012 and '13. Morris averaged 1,444 yards and 10 touchdowns across those two years.

The 29-year-old Morris will presumably slot in somewhere behind running backs Jerick McKinnon and Matt Breida on the 49ers' depth chart. He also offers some insurance at the position after McKinnon suffered a minor knee injury in Sunday's practice and Breida separated his shoulder in Thursday's preseason opener. However, both players are expected to be ready for Week 1 of the regular season.