Xavier Smith Lands With 49ers Practice Squad Days After Rams Cut

Xavier Smith did not stay on the open market for long. Less than a week after the Los Angeles Rams cut him over special-teams struggles, the wide receiver and return specialist has been signed to the San Francisco 49ers' practice squad, the club announced Wednesday. Smith was released by the Rams last Friday, with Los Angeles turning to Alex Bachman on punt and kickoff returns. In three seasons with the Rams he posted 20 catches for 309 yards, along with 50 punt returns for 469 yards and 26 kickoff returns for 600 yards — production that made his release a mild surprise, even if the recent errors made the decision understandable. The landing spot makes sense. San Francisco's receiver room is banged up, with Dante Pettis nursing a calf injury, and the 49ers value return-game versatility as they shape their roster for the stretch run. Smith gives them an experienced option who can slot in on both coverage and return units. There is a date on the calendar that will get attention, too: the 49ers host the Rams at Levi's Stadium in Week 14, giving Smith a shot at proving his old team wrong — if he earns his way off the practice squad by then.