San Francisco 49ers running back Raheem Mostert is hoping to renegotiate his contract after a breakout 2019 campaign. Josina Anderson of ESPN reported Mostert “requested a pay raise earlier this offseason,” adding Mostert feels his productivity should take precedence over incentives.
Although Mostert signed the aforementioned three-year deal with the 49ers prior to the 2019 season, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reported the team has “discussed” an extension:
Mostert becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2022 but, considering his contributions on special teams and on offense, is underpaid. That’s the incentive to get a new deal done with him.
Mostert's current contract pays him at just under $3 million in terms of annual average value. But he was an integral member of the 49ers backfield last season.
The 28-year-old rushed for 772 yards and eight touchdowns on a whopping 5.6 yards per carry. Mostert also averaged 12.9 yards per reception. The highlight of his season came in the NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers when Mostert rushed for 220 yards and four scores to help lead the 49ers to the Super Bowl.
San Francisco still has a crowded backfield even after trading Matt Breida.
Jerick McKinnon will return after missing the last two seasons due to injury, and both Tevin Coleman and Jeff Wilson figure to see some touches. However, it is hard to ignore Mostert's productivity and efficiency. It would not be a surprise if he entered the 2020 season as the feature back.
In the meantime, Mostert is hoping to secure a pay raise as he and the 49ers enter training camp with Super Bowl expectations.