Proactive Measures: Addressing Backfield Vulnerabilities
49ers Actively Seek Running Back Reinforcements
The San Francisco 49ers recently conducted tryouts for three seasoned running backs: Raheem Blackshear, Khalil Herbert, and Owen Wright. This initiative comes as the team faces challenges with its current backfield depth due to recent player injuries, necessitating immediate action to stabilize the roster.
Impact of Recent Injuries on Team Roster
The decision to hold tryouts was prompted by significant injuries within the squad. Notably, second-year player Jordan James sustained a broken rib during a recent practice session, an injury that is expected to keep him off the field for a considerable period. James was a key competitor for the primary backup position to Christian McCaffrey, vying with rookie Kaelon Black. Furthermore, Isaac Guerendo was placed on the physically unable to perform list earlier in the week, exacerbating the team's depth issues. These setbacks have underscored the urgent need for additional talent in the running back department.
Khalil Herbert's Extensive Professional Experience
Among the players evaluated, Khalil Herbert stands out with the most extensive NFL career. Drafted in the sixth round by the Bears in 2021 from Virginia Tech, Herbert has participated in 63 professional games, starting 13 of them. Throughout his career, which includes stints with the Bears, Bengals, and Jets, he has accumulated 1,957 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, maintaining an impressive 4.7 yards per carry average. He also contributed significantly in the passing game with 54 receptions for 316 yards and two scores. His most productive season was in 2022 with Chicago, where he recorded 731 rushing yards and four touchdowns. Despite his previous success, Herbert played only seven games for the Jets last season, managing 52 rushing yards, and has been a free agent since.
Raheem Blackshear's Journey in the NFL
Raheem Blackshear, 27, entered the NFL in 2022 as an undrafted free agent from Rutgers. His entire professional tenure has been with the Panthers. In 41 games, including two starts, he has rushed for 203 yards and three touchdowns, alongside 16 receptions for 138 yards. Blackshear has primarily been utilized as a change-of-pace back and a return specialist. He has frequently moved between practice squads, including a brief period with the Jets last season, showcasing his resilience and versatility.
Owen Wright's Budding Career
Owen Wright is the least experienced of the three veterans. He joined the Ravens in 2023 as an undrafted free agent. To date, Wright has appeared in only four career games across his time with Baltimore and the Buccaneers, accumulating a modest six rushing yards on three carries. His limited exposure suggests he is still in the early stages of his professional development, looking for an opportunity to establish himself.
Shared Traits Among the Contenders
An interesting observation about Blackshear, Herbert, and Wright is their similar physical profiles and skill sets. All three are listed at 5-foot-9 and possess experience as return specialists. This commonality aligns well with the capabilities of Jordan James, suggesting the 49ers are looking for players who can fill a similar role and provide comparable versatility to their injured back.
Implications for the Upcoming Preseason
Jordan James' absence creates an immediate opportunity for Kaelon Black to potentially secure the No. 2 running back position behind Christian McCaffrey. Additionally, Patrick Taylor Jr. and Sincere McCormick are expected to receive increased practice repetitions during training camp. The general manager, John Lynch, and the front office are clearly taking a cautious approach to mitigate the impact of a depleted running back roster as the preseason looms. The ultimate decision on whether any of the tryout participants will be offered a contract will depend on their performance in the coming days and how they integrate into the team's practices.
