IN BRIEF : Sherrard Signs With San Francisco

Free agent Mike Sherrard, hampered by leg injuries since his rookie season with Dallas in 1986, has agreed to a $1.3-million three-year pact with the San Francisco 49ers.

The wide receiver from UCLA was Dallas’ first-round pick, but he hasn’t played since his initial season because he broke and then rebroke his right leg.

“The long-range plan is as important as the short range,” San Francisco Coach George Seifert said.

The player’s agent, Leigh Steinberg, said doctors report that Sherrard will be as fast as ever once he has fully recovered. Sherrard has been timed in less than 4.3 seconds for 40 yards.

Sherrard, who caught 41 passes and averaged 18.2 yards per catch for Dallas as a rookie, said he works out by jogging, swimming and lifting weights. “I’m at a point where I need to step up the pace,” he said, adding that he is “positive” he can play again.