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49ers RB Battle: Competition Heats Up for Backup Role
25 Aug
Summary
- Jordan James returned to practice after a rib fracture, rejoining the RB2 competition.
- Rookie Kaelon Black seized the opportunity, impressing in his preseason debut.
- The running back competition for the No. 2 job behind McCaffrey is still undecided.

The San Francisco 49ers' quest to determine the backup running back behind Christian McCaffrey is ongoing. Jordan James has rejoined practice after recovering from a rib fracture, intensifying the competition. James, initially the frontrunner, was sidelined, allowing third-round rookie Kaelon Black to impress during his absence.
Black, taken out of Indiana, showed promise in his preseason debut against the Chargers, rushing for 33 yards. Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak noted Black's immediate impact and poise in his first NFL action. The team also aims to develop Black's receiving skills.
With Isaac Guerendo still sidelined due to a shoulder injury, solidifying the depth chart is crucial. Kubiak indicated that the 49ers will continue rotating their running backs, with the decision on the primary backup likely extending into the first week of the regular season.