The 49ers announced the signing of sixth-round RB Anthony Dixon to a four-year deal late Monday afternoon. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The 6-1, 235-pound Dixon is expected to challenge 2009 third-rounder Glen Coffee for the primary backup role behind Frank Gore.
Dixon finished his career at Mississippi State as the school's all-time leading rusher with 3,994 yards. He also owns school records for career attempts (910) and rushing touchdowns (42). Dixon set the Bulldogs’ single-season rushing mark and ranked second in the Southeastern Conference with 1,391 rushing yards as a senior. He also recorded 12 touchdowns and eight 100-yard rushing games.
In Pro Football Weekly’s 2010 Draft Preview, draft expert Nolan Nawrocki said Dixon “has potential to emerge as a starter in a stretch-zone running game if he can mature and learn to prepare like a pro.”
Dixon is the third of eight Niners 2010 rookies to sign his contract.
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