The San Francisco 49ers will keep Anquan Boldin in the Bay Area.
The wide receiver announced Monday, via his foundation's website, that he has agreed to return to the team. The team later officially announced that it has agreed to terms with Boldin on a two-year contract.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that the deal will pay $12 million over two years, per a source who had seen the deal.
"Looking forward to joining my teammates, coaching staff and fans to bring back another championship to the Bay Area," Boldin wrote. "Let's go after our Quest For Six."
Boldin had 85 receptions for 1,179 yards and seven touchdowns in 2013, his first season in San Francisco.
Boldin was ranked No. 44 on Around The League's list of the top 101 free agents. He would have been the No. 4 wide receiver available had he been allowed to reach free agency.
The 33-year-old has aged incredibly well because he never was reliant on speed. He is a big-bodied receiver who can dominate a game with route running, positioning and attacking the ball.
Boldin is the type of player who immediately opens up a defense for the rest of the players in his offense -- both receivers and running backs. It's no surprise that offenses in Baltimore and Arizona have struggled to replace his presence.
From the 49ers' perspective, keeping the veteran makes complete sense. Boldin is a great complement to Michael Crabtree. The 12-year veteran provides quarterback Colin Kaepernick with a security blanket.
Building the receiving corps around Boldin and Crabtree will keep the 49ers' passing offense chugging forward. However, neither has blazing speed. Look for general manager Trent Baalke to add a swift pass-catcher to compete with second-year receiver Quinton Patton for playing time.
The latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast" works through our top 101 free agents and responds to some heat from Donte Whitner.
