Kyle Shanahan on 49ers’ likely Week 16 starter, Patrick Taylor Jr.: “Big opportunity for him”

The San Francisco 49ers' injury woes continue to mount. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed on Friday that Patrick Taylor Jr. will "most likely" start at running back in Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins. The team has ruled out rookie Isaac Guerendo due to a hamstring injury.

Guerendo only stepped into the starting role because injuries have decimated the 49ers' running back depth this season. Elijah Mitchell has missed the entire 2024 campaign. After battling Achilles tendinitis, reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey appeared in only four games before a PCL injury ended his season. Meanwhile, a high-ankle sprain has sidelined Jordan Mason.

With Taylor set to make his first NFL start, Shanahan expressed confidence in the veteran's ability to step up and contribute on offense.

"He's been here since training camp," Shanahan said. "He's done a real good job for us, played in this league before, has experience there at Green Bay, and when he's gotten his opportunities with us, he's ran the ball well.

"And when he hasn't run the ball, he's really helped us on special teams. So, big opportunity for him, and glad we've got him."

Taylor, now in his fourth NFL season, has amassed 311 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 79 carries over his career. This season, he has contributed 50 rushing yards and one touchdown on 14 carries.