Head coach Kyle Shanahan values his fullback, Kyle Juszczyk, and the importance of having a lead blocker opening things up in the rushing attack. That can lead to significant gains by Raheem Mostert, Tevin Coleman, or whoever is carrying the football.
San Francisco recorded an NFL-leading 270 snaps out of 21 personnel last season while leading all teams with 153 rushing attempts, contributing to the league's No. 2 rushing attack.
"It's a combination of playcalling and personnel under Shanahan," writes Matt Bowen of ESPN, "with heavily schemed play-action throws and misdirection (pre- and post-snap), along with the ability to gain numbers with fullback Kyle Juszczyk in the run game."
Bowen notes that San Francisco averaged 6.83 yards per play out of 21 personnel, which included 9.59 yards per pass attempt and 5.51 yards per carry. That also included a league-best 32 total explosive plays.
"Think of the middle-of-the-field throws here for Jimmy Garoppolo, who led the NFL with 1,055 yards passing out of 21," adds Bowen. "Play-action and RPOs led Deebo Samuel, Emmanuel Sanders, George Kittle and Juszczyk all to the top 10 of 21-personnel receptions."
Mostert, Coleman, and former 49ers running back Matt Breida combined to average over 4.5 yards per attempt on rushes in 21 personnel. Each finished the season with over 500 yards rushing.
The teams which ran 21 personnel the least were the Los Angeles Rams and Jacksonville Jaguars. Neither had that specific personnel group on the field once last season.
The Cleveland Browns, however, could utilize it during the upcoming season. The Minnesota Vikings ranked No. 2 behind the 49ers last season in the number of snaps (212) out of 21 personnel. New Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski was the offensive coordinator in Minnesota at the time.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers add explosiveness to offense in PFF's 2026 NFL mock draft
The San Francisco 49ers are expected to pursue a veteran wide receiver in free agency, especially with Brandon Aiyuk's time in the Bay Area appearing to wind down. But head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch may also use the 2026 NFL Draft to add another weapon... -
Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey keep putting up historic stats as 49ers offense continues to dominate
No NFL offense has been hotter as of late than that of the San Francisco 49ers, and it's been due in large part to the play of quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey. After a thrilling 42-38 win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday night, the 49ers have now... -
49ers vs. Colts PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 11-4 after a 48-27 win against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 16. Today, Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game. Which Niners stood out, and who needs more work? Highest-graded 49ers:... -
49ers vs. Bears PFF grades: Best and worst from the game, plus snap counts
The San Francisco 49ers improved their record to 12-4 after a 42-38 win against the Chicago Bears in Week 17. Today, Pro Football Focus released its grades and snap counts from the game. Which Niners stood out, and who needs more work? Highest-graded 49ers: Offense Luke...