The San Francisco 49ers have used Carlos Hyde as a weapon in the passing game during practices this spring and Chip Kelly plans to carry that over into the season.

"He's got really, really good hands," Kelly said. "He made a really nice catch (on Tuesday) in the flats on a difficult throw. It's interesting from someone that size and that has that skill-set as a guy coming out of the backfield. So, it's certainly something we need to continue to build upon with him."

Hyde has never tallied more than 16 receptions in a season dating back to his days at Ohio State. In 2015, he totaled 11 catches for 53 yards in seven games.

"I think it's something that's overlooked, but this year we may get to see it," Hyde said. "I like playing receiver. It's another opportunity to get out in space and get the ball in your hands.

"To me, it's the feeling that you're taking over the game. The defense isn't just worried about your running the ball, they've got to worry about you coming out of the backfield, catching the ball and making plays after you catch the ball. It puts stress on the defense and opens up things for other people on the team."