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The 49ers were supposed to sign safety J.J. Wilcox on Tuesday morning to a one-year deal, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Former Cowboys’ and Steelers’ safety J.J. Wilcox is signing a one-year deal with the SF 49ers, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 5, 2018
But things apparently went south when Wilcox visited the 49ers’ offices. At the last minute, Wilcox decided he wanted to sign with the Jets instead and play for head coach Todd Bowles. Wilcox then got on a plane and is currently headed to New Jersey to sign a contract.
Former Cowboys’ and Steelers’ S JJ Wilcox was in 49ers’ offices to sign today…and then he “flipped”, in word of one source, and decided he wanted to play for HC Todd Bowles. “He got stage fright,” said another source. Now Wilcox is on flight to NJ to sign with Jets – if no flip
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 5, 2018
On Monday, the 49ers waived defensive back Trovon Reed, clearing up space for a signing such as Wilcox. Wilcox was supposed to provide depth and experience to a starting safety duo comprised of Adrian Colbert and Jaquiski Tartt, both of who will enter their first seasons in full-time starting roles. 49ers safeties Chanceller James (knee), Don Jones (knee), and rookie Marcell Harris (Achilles) have been held out of OTAs so far, although they are expected to return by training camp.
Wilcox, 27, spent the first four years of his career with the Dallas Cowboys, where he produced 156 tackles and five interceptions. Prior to the 2017 season, he joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He failed to win the starting job. About six months later, he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he appeared in 12 games last season, producing one start. The Steelers released him in late April.
