McCaffrey's presence on the roster has propelled the 49ers to the top of Pro Football Focus' recent rankings of the best running back units in the NFL.
"Christian McCaffrey is PFF's top-ranked running back heading into the 2024 season, so it should be no surprise the Niners take the No. 1 spot here," analyst Trevor Sikkema explained. "McCaffrey generated the most PFF wins above average among running backs last season, at 0.25."
Pro Football Focus contributor Thomas Valentine recently noted, "His 339 touches from scrimmage led the league, and despite the lofty workload, his efficiency was excellent. McCaffrey averaged 5.0 yards per carry and caught 67 passes for 564 yards."
San Francisco recently signed McCaffrey to a two-year extension, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season.
"Two years ago, we were ecstatic to welcome Christian McCaffrey to the 49ers," general manager John Lynch said via a statement following the signing. "Since his arrival, he's been everything we thought he would be and more. His versatile skillset has been a seamless fit within our offense. His professionalism and work ethic are as exemplary as I've seen since I've been associated with the NFL."
Backing up McCaffrey are Elijah Mitchell and fourth-round draft pick Isaac Guerendo. Mitchell has proven to be a valuable contributor, averaging 4.7 yards per attempt over his career, though he has struggled with injuries.
Guerendo, the fastest running back at the NFL Scouting Combine and the third-fastest player overall in Indianapolis, clocked a 4.33-second 40-yard dash. The 49ers have high hopes for the first-year player.
"Elijah Mitchell also remains a very solid RB2 option with rookie Isaac Guerendo as the upside RB3," Sikkema continued. "Throw All-Pro fullback Kyle Juszczyk into the list, and the 49ers more than deserve this ranking."
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
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... -
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... -
Why the 49ers have no quarterback debate
Monday night, as I was about to order my Panda Express dinner before the game, the man in front of me asked if I thought quarterback Brock Purdy was good and how he compared to Mac Jones. He was a Patriots fan who felt Mac had gotten a raw deal in New England, but I told him...