From a Super Bowl appearance last season, the San Francisco 49ers have struggled to compete in 2024. Injuries to their key personnel are a significant reason for their struggles. While the Niners have injured players across the roster, their running back depth chart has been ravaged the most.
As ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported, Isaac Guerendo might not play during their Week 16 game against the Miami Dolphins due to a hamstring injury. The rookie running back from Louisville saw increased usage during San Francisco’s last two games. He had 15 carries for 78 yards and two touchdowns in their win against the Chicago Bears. In their succeeding game versus the Los Angeles Rams, Guerendo had 16 carries for 57 yards.
After losing RBs Christian McCaffrey, Jordan Mason and Elijah Mitchell to season-ending injuries, it now looks as if the 49ers will be without RB Isaac Guerendo for Sunday’s game vs. Miami. Guerendo is dealing with a hamstring injury and is unlikely to play, per source. pic.twitter.com/PyqyBCqPoT
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 19, 2024
Guerendo’s absence further dilutes the available running backs for the Niners. They’ve already lost Elijah Mitchell, Jordan Mason, and Christian McCaffrey to season-ending injuries. With Guerendo unavailable, Patrick Taylor Jr. or Israel Abanikanda might see increased minutes against the Dolphins.
Every game counts for the 49ers as they try to keep their playoff hopes alive. Therefore, the next man up must embrace their role and contribute what they can.
-Lance Fernandez