49ers sign RB Khalil Herbert and former Colts 6th-round edge rusher; waive Eli Apple

The San Francisco 49ers have signed running back Khalil Herbert to a one-year deal. They’ve also added Titus Leo, a 6’3”, 245-pounder who was drafted in the sixth round by the Colts in the 2023 NFL Draft. Leo has only appeared in four games during his tenure, most recently appearing on the Eagles’ practice squad in October 2025.

We knew the 49ers were working out various defensive linemen. It was reported the team had a tryout with Ogbo Okonkwo, but ultimately went younger. Leo tested well at his Pro Day back in 2023, running a 4.69 40-yard dash, with a 129” vertical jump — an elite number.

To make room for both players, the 49ers waived cornerback Eli Apple and waived/injured Mikail Kamara after being carted off during Saturday’s practice.

The Herbert signing comes on the heels of Jordan James sustaining fractured ribs. Herbert played sparingly in 2025 with the Jets. The 28-year-old was once viewed as a promising, big-play threat. He entered the NFL with 4.48 speed, but injuries have since zapped some of that explosive ability.

Herbert will likely spell Kaelon Black and Patrick Taylor in the preseason, assuming we don’t see much of Christian McCaffrey.