The San Francisco 49ers received some disappointing news right before the start of the regular season, as they announced that Christian McCaffrey would miss Week 1 due to an Achilles/calf injury.
McCaffrey, one of the NFL’s most dynamic offensive players, was placed on injured reserve as he deals with bilateral Achilles tendinitis. It’s uncertain when or if he will return this season.
Thankfully, the 49ers found a dependable backup in Jordan Mason. The third-year running back from Georgia Tech has tallied 114 carries for 609 yards and three touchdowns so far this season. However, Mason suffered a sprained AC joint during the 49ers’ Week 6 victory over the Seattle Seahawks.
Mason was limited in practice on Wednesday and was seen wearing a blue non-contact jersey during Thursday’s practice, according to ESPN’s Nick Wagoner.
With both of their top running backs dealing with injuries ahead of Week 7, the 49ers might need to consider adding reinforcements to their backfield before the trade deadline on November 5. Although rookie Isaac Guerendo had an impressive 76-yard run against the Seahawks, he’s only averaging 3.0 yards per carry outside of that single play.
San Francisco might look to make a trade similar to the one they made two years ago when they acquired Christian McCaffrey in exchange for four draft picks.
One potential target could be 2022 Pro Bowler Miles Sanders, who would be a more affordable option than McCaffrey. Currently, Chuba Hubbard leads the Carolina Panthers with 485 rushing yards, while Sanders is trailing with just 98 yards in six games.
With rookie Jonathan Brooks nearing a return to the Panthers’ active roster, Sanders could become less vital to their offense. This might prompt the Panthers to consider trading Sanders to the 49ers for a Day 3 draft pick, rather than releasing him once Brooks is ready to play.
Although Sanders is under contract through the 2026 season, his guaranteed salary runs out after 2024, making him a potential cap casualty before free agency. If the Panthers agree to cover part of Sanders’ salary for 2024, the 49ers could gain a valuable veteran addition to Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system.
Throughout his six-year NFL career, Sanders has accumulated 898 carries for 4,238 yards and 22 touchdowns. He also offers versatility in the passing game, with 162 receptions for 1,167 yards and three touchdowns.
Running backs play a crucial role in Shanahan’s offense, and the 49ers currently rank third in rushing yards per game (158) behind only the Baltimore Ravens and Green Bay Packers.
Given the importance of maintaining leads late in games, the 49ers will benefit from adding as much healthy depth as possible to their backfield.
