Dawson confirms return to 49ers, Whitner to Browns

Phil Dawson set a 49ers’ record  by making 27 consecutive field goals in 2013. Now, he is ready to see what he can do for an encore. The veteran kicker confirmed via his Twitter account that he is returning to San Francisco.

Very excited & grateful for the opportunity to return to my team & be a part of chasing the quest for six! Go niners! #itsgood

— Phil Dawson (@phil_dawson_4) March 11, 2014

Dawson converted 32-of-36 field goal attempts last year and also went 7-of-7 in the playoffs. For his career, he’s made 84.5 percent of his kicks which is the highest percentage in NFL history for kickers with at least 300 field goal attempts.

While the news on Dawson is good, the same can’t be said for safety Donte Whitner. All signs are pointing to Whitner signing with his hometown Cleveland Browns.

Whitner started all but one game in three seasons with the 49ers and intercepted five passes. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2012. His teammate and fellow safety, Eric Reid, said his goodbyes via Twitter.

The business side to the league is never fun. Hate to see him go but happy for my man @DonteWhitner Appreciate everything you did for me fam

— Eric Reid (@E_Reid35) March 11, 2014

The 49ers will either look to free agency or the draft to replace Whitner, as backups C.J. Spillman and Craig Dahl may be better suited for special teams.

Photo: Getty Images