San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Braylon Edwards has been out since Week Two of the 2011 NFL season when he suffered a right knee injury in a 27-24 overtime loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Six weeks later, it looks like he may be ready to return. According to Matt Maiocco of SportsNet Bay Area, Edwards ran routes of all lengths today.
Edwards' return could become another bright spot in a season that has been filled with them. From the fairly consistent play of Alex Smith to the strong rushing attack headed by Frank Gore to the stingy defense, San Francisco has rushed out to a 5-1 record and the top spot in the NFC West. The team has been short-handed at receiver, and Edwards could be the man to fill that void.
Edwards recorded his best statistical season since 2007 last year with the Jets when he finished with 904 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. He also averaged a career-best 17.1 yards per catch. San Francisco will be good shape if Edwards can put up comparable numbers this year.
The 49ers play the Cleveland Browns at home this weekend. The Browns boast the league's second-best defense against the run this year, allowing just 172.0 yards per game. Edwards could be in for a tough outing in his first game back, assuming that he does return on Sunday, but his presence alone should boost San Francisco's confidence as it prepares for its games coming out of the bye week.