Jones named the 49ers' fifth-round pick, former Oregon running back Jordan James, as the team's Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
"Over the years, the Kyle Shanahan system has consistently produced exceptional rookie seasons for running backs, including those drafted in later rounds," Jones explained. "Jordan James had 1,267 rushing yards on 233 carries in 2024 and has the potential to be the next breakout star in Shanahan's offense."
However, there's a major obstacle: James is expected to compete for the third running back spot—at best—behind star Christian McCaffrey and second-year back Isaac Guerendo, who seem firmly entrenched atop the depth chart. While James could carve out a role, producing the kind of numbers needed to earn Offensive Rookie of the Year honors seems highly unlikely.
For James to post award-worthy stats, something would have to go horribly wrong for the 49ers offense, similar to last season, when McCaffrey missed all but four games with injuries, and backup Jordan Mason also missed time. That situation thrust rookie Guerendo into the starting lineup, and even he couldn't avoid an injury down the stretch.
Mason has since been traded to the Minnesota Vikings, but McCaffrey is healthy again and expected to power head coach Kyle Shanahan's ground attack while contributing as a pass catcher. Guerendo averaged five yards per carry last season, earning himself more opportunities in his second NFL campaign.
RELATED
The one 49ers offensive rookie who might have a shot at a more substantial role in 2025 is wide receiver Jordan Watkins, who has impressed throughout the offseason.
Meanwhile, James has at least two running backs ahead of him, quarterback Kurtis Rourke is still recovering from ACL surgery, and wide receiver Junior Bergen is expected to contribute on special teams primarily.
The 49ers' only other offensive draft pick was guard Connor Colby, making it difficult to choose candidates for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
H/t to Mike Masala of Niners Wire for the find.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers have interest in re-signing Brian Robinson Jr.
Running back Brian Robinson Jr. spent just one season with the San Francisco 49ers, playing 17 percent of the offensive snaps while serving as the primary backup to Christian McCaffrey. Given that limited role, it would be understandable if Robinson explored opportunities... -
49ers have visit scheduled with Texas Tech DE Romello Height
According to analyst Ryan Fowler, the San Francisco 49ers are among several teams that have visits scheduled with former Texas Tech defensive end Romello Height. "One of the elite pass-rushers in the class, Height had 70 total pressures & nine sacks this fall and was a... -
49ers have reportedly reached out to Eagles regarding DT Jalen Carter
The Philadelphia Eagles appear to be interested in trading defensive tackle Jalen Carter. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported on Sunday that the Eagles have received trade calls on Carter. And now, it's being reported that multiple teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, have... -
49ers mailbag: Should SF give in to Trent Williams? Does Mike Evans have anything left? Who are some mid-level free agent targets?
The NFL new year has begun, and the San Francisco 49ers have made a few moves. In addition to adding a few players, they've lost a few of their own free agents and are expected to release wayward receiver Brandon Aiyuk at some point. Reportedly, they're in no hurry to do so,...