The San Francisco 49ers added veteran wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge to their practice squad on Monday, bringing back a familiar face who spent time with the organization earlier this season.
At 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, the 31-year-old provides experienced depth at a position that has dealt with various injuries and roster fluctuations throughout the year.
Hodge’s path to this point has been that of a classic undrafted free agent who carved out a long career through reliability and special teams value.
He first signed with the Los Angeles Rams in late July 2018 and has since played for the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and now the 49ers across nine seasons.
In 121 games with 10 starts, he has recorded 68 receptions for 1,044 yards and two touchdowns while also appearing in four postseason contests. His production has never been that of a primary offensive weapon, but his contributions have often come in other phases of the game.
That versatility peaked in 2024 with the Falcons, when Hodge earned his first Pro Bowl selection as a special teams player.
He delivered memorable moments that season, including a game-winning 45-yard touchdown reception in overtime against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and strong play on coverage units that included blocked and tipped punts.
Those efforts earned him recognition as the NFC’s special teams representative in the Pro Bowl, underscoring his reputation as a high-effort, multi-role contributor who could impact games without heavy targets in the passing attack.
His 2026 campaign with San Francisco began with a practice squad signing in late August, followed by promotion to the active roster.
Hodge appeared in the team’s first three games and caught one pass for 18 yards before being released on October 1 as part of an injury settlement involving a knee issue.
His return to the practice squad on Monday requires no corresponding move, as a spot had opened on the unit.
For the 49ers, the addition offers a proven option who can contribute on special teams or step in on offense if needed, particularly with questions lingering around the wide receiver group heading into the second half of the season.
Before reaching the NFL, Hodge played three seasons at Prairie View A&M after transferring from Hinds Community College. In 30 games for the Panthers, he totaled 104 receptions for 1,797 yards and 21 touchdowns, showcasing the big-play ability that helped him stick in the professional ranks.
A native of Mendenhall, Mississippi, he has now logged nearly a decade in the league by consistently finding roles where teams value dependability over flash.
His latest opportunity with the 49ers gives him another chance to demonstrate that same utility as the team navigates the remainder of the 2026 schedule.
