Hightower was signed by the 49ers on Saturday, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hightower, who is set to turn 31 in May, has spent the past two seasons in a backup role with the Saints. The 49ers now have five running backs on the depth chart, having re-signed DuJuan Harris earlier in the week. Carlos Hyde (knee) is the clear-cut start at this point heading into the 2017 season, but Hightower will have a chance to compete with Harris, Mike Davis, and Raheem Mostert for snaps.