Jason Verrett's return to the 49ers is already off to strong start

For as much as Jason Verrett returning to the San Francisco 49ers as a part of their practice squad is a heartwarming story, doubts about his ability to have an impact should he get on the field would be understandable.

Verrett’s tortuous injury history is well documented, and he has not played since tearing his ACL in the 49ers’ 2021 season opener. He tore his Achilles in 2022 shortly after coming off the PUP list.

But his first week of practice since his return has seemingly been encouraging, and defensive coordinator Steve Wilks’ comments should raise hopes they can rely on the 32-year-old if he is pressed into action down the stretch or in the postseason.

Asked about Verrett in his Thursday press conference, Wilks said: "Love Jason man, I never had the chance, I just missed him when I left San Diego, great player, even better human being, all the guys love him.

"He’s one of the favorites in the locker room, his relationships in being here before, great movement, he’s still moving well. I’m very confident he’s going to be able to help us at some point, inside or outside, and looking forward to getting him on the field sometime soon."

Regardless of whether he gets on the field, Verrett should have an influence on the 49er secondary with his mentorship of their young corners Deommodore Lenoir and Ambry Thomas, both of whom have impressed this season and may be the starters on the outside this week against the Arizona Cardinals with Charvarius Ward nursing a groin injury.

“We’ve got our big brother back,” Lenoir said on Wednesday. “Coming in as a rookie [in 2021], he always had me and Ambry under his wing, teaching us the defense. For him to come back and see us progress, that’s the best feeling.”

For Verrett, his decision to request his release from the Texans’ practice squad to return to the Niners was all about getting back to where he feels he belongs.

Verrett grew up just 45 miles from San Francisco in Fairfield, CA, and he made no effort to hide his delight at being back with the Niners.

"It was just a way I could get reps," Verrett said of his time with the Texans’ practice squad.

"My heart was always wanting to be here. Fast forward, I’m just glad it worked out."

It has all worked out for Verrett, whom the 49ers planned to sign earlier before injuries at other positions, particularly safety, delayed the move.

Now he is back at the place he clearly considers home, and Wilks’ words suggest the reunion will prove an astute move if Verrett does get on the field in the 49ers’ Super Bowl push.