The 49ers have signed ex-Ravens linebacker Tavares Gooden to a one year contract, according to Aaron Wilson of Scout.com
The Niners cut reserve inside linebacker Keaton Kristick yesterday to make room for quarterback Scott Tolzien on the roster. Gooden gives the Niners depth at the inside linebacker position.
Also, according to CBS Sportsline’s Michael Erler, Gooden gives the Niners something they lack – a linebacker who can cover tight ends. For Sunday’s regular season opener the Niners have to figure out what to do with Seattle’s tight end Zach Miller, who is perhaps their best player on offense. Currently the Niners would have to cover him with Donte Whitner and Ahmad Brooks. Gooden gives them another option.
The Niners will have to cut someone to make room for Gooden, but it is not known who they will cut yet. Will Tukuafu, Colin Jones, and C.J. Spillman are now on the bubble.
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