Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year, we ask questions of the most plugged-in Niners fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
We are asking about the running backs this week, but not Christian McCaffrey. San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan hasn’t been subtle about acknowledging the need to use more backs moving forward. The team drafted Kaelon Black in the third round, but don’t forget about Jordan
James from last season.
James has a lot of Devonta Freeman in him. Not the flashiest, fastest, or biggest. But you can’t deny how effective he is, and by season’s end, you’re surprised at how many yards he’s racked up. That kind of consistency is just what the doctor ordered for the 49ers.
Black is flashy. The 49ers will run Black up the middle, but turn around and throw him a pass that allows him to use his speed to turn the corner and run right by a linebacker. Black is the kind of runner who will rush for 1, 2, 3, and 15 yards. However, we believe the majority of his damage will be through the air early on in his career, especially if the team needs to go a couple of games without McCaffrey.
Understanding that McCaffrey’s workload will be lighter this season, we’re asking you which running back will have more yards from scrimmage in 2026. Will it be the consistency of James or the flashiness of Black?
