Hightower, an unrestricted free agent, will visit with the 49ers on Thursday, ESPN.com's Mike Triplett reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower was one of the better stories of the 2015 season, returning from a three-year absence to play a big role in the New Orleans offense late in the year. He then handled a complementary role for most of 2016, taking 133 carries for 548 yards (4.1 YPC) and four touchdowns, with another 200 yards and a touchdown on 22 catches (26 catches). While lacking in explosiveness, the 30-year-old could garner a reasonably strong contract due to his competence as a power runner, pass blocker and receiver. Hightower could slide right in as Carlos Hyde's top backup in San Francisco, potentially getting the majority of passing-down snaps.