Linebacker Darius Fleming, who twice sustained torn ACLs during preseason practices, is getting another chance in the NFL.
The New England Patriots on Friday signed Fleming, who was available for the regular season with the 49ers after being a fifth-round draft pick in 2012.
Fleming, who played at Notre Dame, sustained a torn left ACL during rookie minicamp shortly after the 49ers selected him in May 2012. Last summer, he sustained a season-ending injury to the same knee during a non-contact drill.
Fleming is now healthy, but the 49ers released him on Monday to clear room for the signings of undrafted rookies.
Another recently released 49ers player, defensive tackle Christian Tupou, was claimed off waivers by the Arizona Cardinals. Tupou (USC) was released to make room for quarterback Josh Johnson on the 49ers’ 90-man roster.
