Free agent cornerback William James is visiting with the San Francisco 49ers, the team announced tonight.

"Free agent CB Will James is in Santa Clara right now visiting and having dinner with the 49ers defensive coaches", the team announced via Twitter.

Formerly known as Will Peterson, the 6-0, 200-pound cornerback began his NFL career as a third-round pick out of Western Illinois by the New York Giants in 2001. Peterson started 39 games over five seasons for the Giants before suffering a serious back injury in 2005. Out of football and rehabbing his back for over a year, Peterson signed with the Philadelphia Eagles midway through the 2006 season, changing his name to Will James at that time, as well. James spent two seasons with the Eagles, starting 6 games during the 2007 season.

After spending the 2008 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, James started 14 of 16 games last season for the Detroit Lions, totaling 73 tackles and a pair of interceptions. James returned one of his interceptions 38 yards for a touchdown in the Lions' 28-20 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

James visited the Seattle Seahawks in March, but did not receive a contract offer.

James' first position coach in the NFL was Johnnie Lynn, who is currently one of the 49ers' two secondary coaches. Lynn also coordinated the Giants' defense in 2002 and 2003.