Tukuafu could be 49ers' next two-way player

SANTA CLARA -- Will Tukuafu earned his spot on the 49ers' season-opening roster a year ago as a defensive lineman.But he could become a legitimate two-way player this season. Tukuafu, listed at 6-foot-4, 293 pounds, is seeing extensive work at fullback behind Bruce Miller.On Tuesday, Tukuafu motioned out of the backfield and caught a short touchdown pass from quarterback Alex Smith during a practice session that was open to the media.Tukuafu, who the 49ers originally signed in August 2010 after Carolina cut him as an undrafted free agent, declined comment . . . at least until September, he said."See if I make the team first," he said. "Got to graduate first."Coach Jim Harbaugh said he is eager to see Tukuafu at his new position in training camp when the pads come on and contact is allowed."Will is doing a great job, athletically, picking up the offense and the defense, both, and I think the best will come when he puts the pads on," Harbaugh said on Tuesday. "That's when it'll get really exciting and fun -- and 280-plus guy playing fullback is going to bode well for us."Tukuafu played in four games last season before sustaining a season-ending wrist injury while blocking on a kickoff return.He could become the next in a line of defensive players to see action for the 49ers on offense. Nose tackle Isaac Sopoaga was used as an extra blocker last season for 42 snaps on offense. Safety Colin Jones shifted to offense and played one snap as a wide receiver. In the playoffs, defensive linemen Justin Smith and Demarcus Dobbs saw limited time on offense.This offseason, Dobbs has seen more action at tight end. Defensive backs Cory Nelms and Ben Hannula have also been used at receiver.With each NFL team allowed to suit up just 46 players for regular-season games, the 49ers have sought creative ways to deal with the limitation.The team did not offer contracts a pair of veteran unrestricted free agents: Fullback Moran Norris and tight end Justin Peelle. So the 49ers are looking at the possibility finding reserves at those positions from the other side of the ball.