With Christian McCaffrey, the San Francisco 49ers have one of the strongest offensive weapons and arguably the best running back in the sport. But since he is one of the favorites for the Super Bowl, his top priority in training camp is to build the necessary depth behind him.
December 10, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) stands next to wide receiver Deebo Samuel (19) and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (11) after the 49ers gained a first down near the end zone against the Seattle Seahawks in the third quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Photo Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
McCaffrey accounted for 2,023 yards from scrimmage, representing 29 percent of the 49ers' total offense during San Francisco's Super Bowl season.
McCaffrey completed 272 carries and ran for 1,459 yards, a career high, as the focal point of the 49ers' offense.
At the very least, it might be wise for the 49ers to strike a balance this summer and find a capable backup to limit McCaffrey's load during the regular season.
Where does the battle for the San Francisco 49ers backup RB stand?
December 31, 2023; Landover, Maryland, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) carries the ball as Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) looks on during the second half at FedExField. Mandatory Photo Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Last season, no other 49ers running back surpassed 300 yards, and head coach Kyle Shannahan seems to be wisely limiting Deebo Samuel's role in the running game.
It should not be too surprising that the 49ers invested a fourth-round pick in Isaac Guerendo as a possible replacement for McCaffrey.
However, ESPN's Nick Wagoner points out that Guerendo suffered an injury early in training camp, giving Cody Schrader the opportunity to get some important reps.
“After just the first practice of training camp, the competition for the 49ers' running backs has changed somewhat,” Wagoner writes. “Rookie running back Isaac Guerendo was forced to leave mid-practice with a hamstring injury, coach Kyle Shanahan said. Guerendo has been dealing with hamstring issues in Louisville, and if those issues persist, it could open up an opportunity for another rookie to make an impact.
“Undrafted rookie Cody Schrader has made a habit of overcoming adversity throughout his successful college career. With Guerendo out and star Christian McCaffrey taking on a limited workload to preserve him for the season, Schrader could have a chance to earn a spot on the roster in the coming days and weeks.”
Regardless of whether Guerendo recovers and improves his performance, Schrader takes his chance, or the 49ers look for reinforcements for their running back on the waiver list over the summer, San Francisco needs to make its running game more balanced.
October 3, 2021; Santa Clara, Calif.; San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan takes the field before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Photo Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
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