Last week, we asked fans which player would have more yards from scrimmage on the San Francisco 49ers behind Christian McCaffrey. It’s our weekly survey question brought to you by FanDuel Sportsbook. They were the last two draft picks at the position: Kaelon Black and Jordan James.
The results were not close, which was mildly surprising. We’re all guessing about the potential roles. James seems like McCaffrey’s backup as a runner with more of an every-down factor, while Black comes off as the change-of-pace,
speedy, home-run back.
According to the votes, Black is going to beat out James in the yards from scrimmage stat handily:
Black is the rookie — a third-rounder at that. The 49ers will have a plan for him.
James was the ninth pick of the fifth round in 2025. He doesn’t possess the same explosiveness, but might be better suited as the 15-20-carry back, while Black might be more of a 15-touch back that includes receptions.
If it comes to a McCaffrey injury, the two will likely spell each other while Shanahan rides the hot hand. It makes for an interesting battle, but judging by the votes, speed will win out. Or is it as simple as Black being the higher draft pick?
