CSN Bay Area

Running back Reggie Bush, who paid a free-agent visit to Levi’s Stadium on Wednesday, is reportedly meeting with the New England Patriots on Friday.

The 49ers and Patriots are the most likely landing spots for Bush, who was released by the Detroit Lions released on Feb. 25 after he played in 11 games due to a lingering ankle issue. Bush gained just 297 yards rushing in 2014, but he accounted for a career-high 1,512 yards from scrimmage in 2013 (1,006 rushing, 506 receiving).

The 49ers are looking to add depth through free agency and/or the draft to join Carlos Hyde and Kendall Hunter in the backfield. Frank Gore, the 49ers' leading rusher in each of the past 10 seasons, signed with the Indianapolis Colts on Wednesday.

After the meeting with Bush, Baalke referred to him as a “great guy.” The 49ers are not expected to offer Bush a lucrative, multi-year contract.

“(We) got out of the visit what we needed,” Baalke said. “Now, it’s time to sit down and go through the pros and cons and try to make the best decision we can and he’ll have to make the best decision for him. He’s going to have options. We’re not the only team interested in Reggie Bush. I promise you that.”

The Patriots are looking to replace Shane Vereen, who signed with the New York Giants this week as a free agent. Bush’s visit to New England was reported by ESPN’s Field Yates.

Bush, 30, a nine-year NFL veteran who entered the NFL as the No. 2 overall pick of the New Orleans Saints in 2006. The Saints, believed to be interested in re-acquiring Bush, signed running back C.J. Spiller on Friday.