90 Earl Mitchell DT

Mitchell signed a four-year contract with the 49ers on Friday, NFL.com's Mike Garafolo reports.

Mitchell was cut by the Dolphins in a cap-saving move last week but it didn't take long for him to find a new home. While the Arizona product racked up a career-low 17 tackles and zero sacks last season, he could be in line for a rebound in 2017 if he can secure the Niners' first-string nose tackle job this summer; the incumbent starting nose tackle, Glenn Dorsey, is set to hit unrestricted free agency.

Mitchell was released by the Dolphins on Thursday, Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports.

Mitchell was scheduled to earn $4.5 million in 2017, of which the Dolphins save $4 million by cutting him. The defensive tackle shouldn't be out of a job for long, however, as he is very talented and is an asset when it comes to stopping the run. With Mitchell gone, Jordan Phillips is expected to take over as the Dolphins' starting defensive tackle next to Ndamukong Suh (knee).

Mitchell (calf) was activated from injured reserve Thursday, Hal Habib of the Palm Beach Post reports.

As expected, Mitchell returned to the active roster after being placed on the IR in Week 1 of the season. The team has yet to comment on how much, if any, action the defensive tackle will see this Sunday against the Chargers. His calf injury will be something to keep an eye on if he does receive some defensive reps, as he figures to serve as the primary backup behind starter Jordan Phillips.

Mitchell (calf) could be activated off of IR and play Sunday in San Diego, Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald reports.

Head coach Adam Gase stated Monday that Mitchell will be activated if he comes through practice this week without any setbacks. Mitchell would be a boost to a linebacking corps that has had it's share of injuries and will go up against one of the best backs in the NFL on Sunday in Melvin Gordon.

Mitchell (calf) could be ready to play in two weeks, Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports.

Mitchell was placed on IR earlier this season after suffering the calf injury. He may not start upon is role but is expected to help out at inside linebacker.