In addition to becoming the team's primary return man, Ellington could be used as the 49ers' third running back after the release of LaMichael James.

In addition to becoming the team's primary return man, Ellington could be used as the 49ers' third running back after the release of LaMichael James.

Analysis:

A disgruntled LaMichael James was released by the 49ers after Sunday's win over Dallas. The team has decided not to sign a third running back to replace James, instead hinting at using Ellington in that role. He was seen warming up with the running backs prior to Wednesday's practice, but was back with the wide receivers Thursday. The 49ers have a vision of using Ellington in a Swiss Army knife role similar to that of Percy Harvin or Cordarrelle Patterson down the road. The speedy rookie is still buried on both the running back and wide receiver depth charts, but this is something to monitor in the future. For now, expect Ellington's primary role to be limited to return duties.