49ers Are Going To Have A Major Shake Up On Their Running Back Depth Chart
The San Francisco 49ers are expected to make some major changes to their running back depth chart this offseason. After a disappointing 2022 season, the team is looking to upgrade its backfield with some fresh faces.
The Current State of the 49ers Running Backs
The 49ers currently have a crowded running back room, but none of their backs have been able to consistently produce and stay healthy. Elijah Mitchell, who was the team’s leading rusher in 2021, missed most of the 2022 season with injuries. Jeff Wilson, who was acquired in a trade with the Miami Dolphins, also struggled with injuries and was ineffective when he was on the field.
Trey Sermon, a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has also been a disappointment. He has failed to live up to expectations and has been passed on the depth chart by Mitchell and Wilson.
What Changes Can We Expect?
With so much uncertainty at the running back position, the 49ers are expected to make some major changes this offseason. The team could look to add a veteran free agent like Saquon Barkley or Josh Jacobs. They could also trade for a running back like Kareem Hunt or Melvin Gordon. Or, they could use one of their draft picks to select a running back.
No matter how the 49ers decide to address their running back depth chart, it is clear that they are not satisfied with the current state of the position. The team is expected to make some major changes this offseason in order to upgrade their backfield and improve their chances of success in 2023.
Potential Free Agent Targets
The 49ers could target several veteran free agents to upgrade their running back depth chart. Here are a few potential targets:
- Saquon Barkley: The former No. 2 overall pick is a dynamic running back who has the potential to be a true workhorse. He is coming off a strong season with the New York Giants, rushing for over 1,000 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns.
- Josh Jacobs: The former first-round pick has been one of the most productive running backs in the NFL over the past three seasons. He is a physical runner who is also a capable receiver out of the backfield.
- Kareem Hunt: The former Pro Bowler is a versatile running back who can be used in a variety of ways. He is a good runner between the tackles, but he is also a dangerous weapon in the passing game.
- Melvin Gordon: The former Pro Bowl running back is a veteran who has been productive in both the running and passing game. He is a good fit for a team that is looking for a three-down back.
Potential Draft Targets
The 49ers could also use one of their draft picks to select a running back. Here are a few potential targets:
- Bijan Robinson (Texas): Robinson is the consensus top running back prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft. He is a complete running back who has the size, speed, and power to be a workhorse in the NFL.
- Jahmyr Gibbs (Alabama): Gibbs is a versatile running back who can do it all. He is a good runner between the tackles, but he is also a dangerous weapon in the passing game and as a returner.
- Devon Achane (Texas A&M): Achane is a shifty running back who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He is a bit undersized, but he makes up for it with his speed and quickness.
- Zach Charbonnet (UCLA): Charbonnet is a powerful running back who is tough to bring down. He is not the most dynamic runner, but he is a good fit for a team that is looking for a short yardage back.
Conclusion
The 49ers are expected to make some major changes to their running back depth chart this offseason. The team is looking to upgrade its backfield with some fresh faces, and there are several potential free agents and draft targets that could be a good fit.
The 49ers have a lot of work to do this offseason, but upgrading their running back depth chart should be a priority. With a strong running game, the 49ers can take some pressure off of quarterback Trey Lance and be a more competitive team in 2023.
