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LaMichael James absent at 49ers' workouts

Published: Apr 21, 2014 at 06:34 AM

Kevin Patra

Around the NFL Writer

LaMichael James won't join the San Francisco 49ers as they begin voluntary offseason conditioning Monday.

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports the running back is in Texas to train on his own as the team begins workouts. CSN Bay Area first reported the news.

While the workouts are voluntary, James' absence is notable because he has been subject of trade rumors entering his third NFL season.

James would welcome a fresh start where he could get more playing time, the report from CSN Bay Area stated.

Since being drafted in the second round out of Oregon, the shifty back has been stuck behind Frank Gore, Kendall Hunter and other tougher runners on the 49ers' depth chart. He had just 12 rushing attempts in 2013 and spent most of his time returning kicks.

With injured running back Marcus Lattimore on pace to battle for a role, it's likely James sees himself getting pushed further down the running back depth chart.

Not attending workouts is just one more indicator that the 24-year-old believes his NFL future lies outside of San Francisco.

In the latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast," the guys discuss the 2014 NFL Draft with guru Bucky Brooks.

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