Key Takeaways:
– Elijah Mitchell, San Francisco 49ers running back, faces the risk of getting cut from the team following a powerful start in his career
– His potential departure is linked to persistent injuries and limited opportunities following the 49ers trade for Christian McCaffrey
– Despite the predictions, Mitchell ended the 2023 season strong, asserting himself as McCaffrey’s main backup
– Jordan Mason, Patrick Taylor Jr., rookies Isaac Guerendo and Cody Schrader are potential replacements for Mitchell
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The Rise and Possible Fall of Elijah Mitchell
San Francisco 49ers’ running back, Elijah Mitchell, emerged as a football sensation in his rookie season setting a franchise record in 2021. However, recent predictions from Bleacher Report analyst David Kenyon suggest this early success might not be enough to keep him in the roster.
Mitchell blazed onto the NFL scene with impressive stats including 963 yards rushing and 137 receiving yards. His rookie season saw him run for 104 yards, claim a touchdown in his first-ever game, and post 96 yards with another touchdown in his inaugural NFL playoff.
Trades and Injuries Interfere with Mitchell’s Stardom
Mitchell’s promising career has faced numerous hurdles, particularly an injury to his knee needed surgery. His playing time stooped following the 49ers trading for star running back, Christian McCaffrey. Being sidelined, Mitchell failed to keep up his initial momentum.
Looking towards the 2024 pre-season, Mitchell’s status within the franchise has reversed from a key player to a potential outcast. In his article, Kenyon proposed Mitchell could be the 49ers’ player to be cut in the 2024 Offseason.
Mitchell’s Strong 2023 Season Finish
Notwithstanding the knocks, Mitchell ended 2023 on a high note. He played 11 games last season, carrying the ball 75 times. While other players, such as Jordan Mason, moved ahead of him on the depth chart, Mitchell reclaimed his position as the clear No. 2 behind McCaffrey by the end of 2023. In fact, he totaled 31 of the 75 carries in the last two games of the year.
Moving on from Mitchell could be seen as just part of the numbers game. Although this wouldn’t save much in terms of cap space—Mitchell is in the last year of his deal—it could free up a space in the squad.
Changes Ahead for the 49ers Running Backs Team
The 49ers could fortify their running back depth chart behind McCaffrey based on pure ability and performance, guaranteeing Mitchell’s position. However, factors like Mitchell’s injury history and the possibility of promoting Mason to primary backup might influence their decision.
Added to the mix, Taylor’s speed and pass-catching abilities make him a unique change-of-pace back. Though, his position could be threatened by the 49ers’ drafting of Guerendo, who impressed with a 4.33 40-yard dash at the combine.
49ers’ coach, Kyle Shanahan, praised Guerendo for his speed, running style, and potential to bring a faster pace to the field, likening these traits to those of Mitchell.
Despite Mitchell’s shaky future with the 49ers, his strong finish to the 2023 season should not be ignored. If the 49ers decide to cut ties, it will be slightly ironic, letting go of a record-setting player for backup or new rookies.