Mark this down as conjecture at this point, but based on various reports around the league, the 49ers have begun to show interest in signing restricted free agent running back Leon Washington (Jets) to a offer sheet in the near future.

Washington was only tendered with a second round offer, and as such he could be seen as an intriguing option for teams in need of a speedy runner offensively and a talented return man on special teams. San Francisco certainly fits that bill, and while Washington’s nasty leg injury from last season may scare off a few potential suitors, the sacrifice of a second round pick for a player who has proven himself to be a very dangerous weapon may be worth the risk.

At this point, neither side has openly spoken with the other, but that could change as the week progresses, with teams beginning to focus more on the restricted free agent market and players who have been let go as a result of other signings.

As always, we’ll keep you posted when anything new hits the wire.