Mitchell proved to be a reliable featured back during his rookie campaign. The 49ers already have one hybrid player, a wide receiver that threatens as a running back, in Deebo Samuel. Mitchell hopes to do something similar—become a running back who can hurt opposing defenses as a downfield receiving threat.
On Thursday, Mitchell joined KNBR and shared what he plans to work on this offseason to prove his best efforts are yet to come.
"I definitely want to improve on making guys miss in the open field. That's one thing," Mitchell told Greg Papa and John Lund. "And also, being able to not just be in the backfield, [but] trying to line up out wide, being a receiver. So this offseason, that's one thing I'm going to be working on, running routes and stuff."
Imagine you're an NFL defensive coordinator and you see Samuel line up in the backfield and Mitchell lining up on the outside at the line of scrimmage—that seems like a matchup nightmare. Currently, there's no indication that is the plan, and Mitchell can still be a receiving threat coming out of the backfield. However, the thought has to be intriguing for head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Mitchell is in the 49ers record books. He rushed for more yards—963—than any rookie in franchise history. He did so in 11 games, which is even more impressive.
Mitchell dealt with several setbacks in 2021, including shoulder, rib, finger, and knee injuries. He even suffered a concussion. The running back plans to use the offseason to get completely healthy, probably something he hasn't been for a while.
"Really, I'm going to heal up and stuff," Mitchell said. "Just start building back up my body and stuff. Hitting the weights hard, conditioning, and just getting ready to see what 2022 has in store for me."
You can listen to the entire conversation with Mitchell below.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers rumors, fantasy, and clickbait: sorting reality from offseason noise
In the offseason, there is not as much to write about unless something unexpected occurs, such as the monster trade when the Cleveland Browns sent superstar defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. Much of what we read falls into the categories of speculation,... -
49ers' Kyle Juszczyk reveals encouraging George Kittle update, praises Mike Evans, minicamp decision
On Saturday, San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk joined "The Insiders" on NFL Network and discussed where he believes the team currently stands, as well as some of his teammates. How is TE George Kittle coming along in his rehab from a torn Achilles? How does WR Mike... -
Donte Whitner believes 49ers' signing of Ashtyn Davis is a threat to Ji'Ayir Brown's starting role
When the San Francisco 49ers signed veteran safety Ashtyn Davis last week, the move didn't create the same buzz as some of the team's bigger offseason additions. But one former 49ers defensive player believes the signing could have a much bigger impact than many expect,... -
49ers mourn the passing of former LB Aldon Smith
The San Francisco 49ers have issued the following statement following the passing of former linebacker Aldon Smith. "We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith. Aldon's undeniable talent and sheer dominance on the field were on display from the moment...