By: Andrew Hubschman

Raheem Mostert had a breakout year in 2019 with the 49ers, but after a lack of “unproductive contract talks” this off-season about an extension, he is now requesting a trade. Here is everything you need to know:

First order of business: Raheem Mostert’s beginnings. Mostert was signed by the Eagles as an undrafted free agent in 2015. He was cut by the Eagles – along with five other teams: the Dolphins, Ravens, Browns, Jets, and Bears until finally settling in San Francisco in 2016. He re-signed with the Red & Gold on a three-year $8.7 mil deal after the 2018 season – and in his first full season of work in 2019, Mostert put up a vigorous campaign, finishing with 772 rushing yards on 137 carries – leading all running backs in yards per carry with 5.6. In addition, he put up eight rushing touchdowns. On the receiving side, he recorded 14 receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns.

Mostert’s put up unbelievable numbers in the 2019 postseason: he had 336 rushing yards on just 53 carries and five touchdowns; his most memorable performance was in the NFC Championship game against the Packers (pictured), where he rushed for 220 yards and four touchdowns in the 37-20 victory.

This brings us to the breaking news: Mostert has requested a trade which was announced by his agent Brett Tessler via Twitter:

Mostert wants to be paid like the team’s top back, and who can blame him? His salary is the lowest among RB’s on the Niners depth chart, behind Jerrick McKinnon (who hasn’t played the past two seasons due to knee injuries), Kyle Juszczyk, and Tevin Coleman. Mostert is expected to earn $2.575 mil for the 2020 season while the other three RB’s are set to earn a range from $4.25 mil and $7.5 mil.

Matt Barrows of The Athletic reported on July 1st that the Niners have conversed about an extension for Mostert and that reaching an agreement has been a priority. Hopefully, the 49ers – who lost RB Matt Breida in a trade to the Dolphins in exchange for a fifth-round pick in this year’s draft (Colton McKivitz) – will not have to say goodbye to their flourished running back so suddenly. After all, Mostert played a crucial role in revamping the Red & Gold into a title-threat again after a five-year playoff absence, so keeping him is incredibly vital.