The 49ers and Kyle Shanahan’s Drafting Tradition

The San Francisco 49ers, under head coach Kyle Shanahan, have established a reputation for prioritizing running backs in the NFL Draft. Despite varying levels of success with these picks, Shanahan’s commitment to building depth in the backfield has become a hallmark of his tenure.

After an injury-plagued 2024 season saw offensive star Christian McCaffrey sidelined and left the team scrambling for stability, speculation is rife that the 49ers may revisit this tradition in the 2025 Draft. With key players like Jordan Mason and Isaac Guerendo also nursing injuries, the backfield has emerged as an area of focus once again.

The State of the 49ers Backfield

Jordan Mason, who performed admirably in McCaffrey’s absence, ended his season prematurely due to a high ankle sprain. Meanwhile, Guerendo flashed moments of brilliance but also succumbed to injury. With Mason entering restricted free agency and Elijah Mitchell likely departing in unrestricted free agency, the 49ers are left with significant questions about depth and durability.

While retaining Mason remains an option, the financial constraints posed by potentially extending quarterback Brock Purdy could complicate matters. This scenario opens the door for Shanahan and the team’s decision-makers to look toward the draft to solidify the running back position.

Quinquon Judkins: A Compelling Draft Prospect

One name that has caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike is Quinquon Judkins. The Ohio State transfer showcased his immense talent in the National Championship Game, delivering a dominant performance with 100 rushing yards, two touchdowns on the ground, and an additional receiving touchdown. His decisive 70-yard run in the third quarter highlighted his burst and ability to capitalize on strong offensive line play.

Judkins’ dynamic skill set, which includes breakaway speed, lateral quickness, and impressive contact balance, makes him a prototype for a Shanahan-style offense. His knack for finding space in the passing game further elevates his potential, offering the kind of versatility that fits seamlessly into the 49ers’ system.

Why Judkins Could Be a Perfect Fit

Shanahan has long prized running backs who excel in creating opportunities with their vision, agility, and explosiveness. Judkins checks all these boxes and then some. His three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in college underscore his consistency and reliability, while his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations demonstrates his readiness for the NFL stage.

However, one area of concern is his pass protection. While this aspect of his game needs refinement, the 49ers’ legendary running backs coach Bobby Turner has a proven track record of developing players in this area. If Judkins can address these concerns, he has the potential to be a game-changer in San Francisco.

Balancing Team Needs with Draft Strategy

The 49ers enter the 2025 Draft with several pressing needs beyond the running back position. Their offensive line requires reinforcements, and bolstering the secondary remains a priority. Judkins, projected as a day-two pick, could be viewed as a luxury rather than a necessity, especially with the team’s finite draft capital.

However, Shanahan’s history suggests he is unafraid to make bold moves for players he believes can elevate his offense. Past selections like Trey Sermon and Tyrion Davis-Price, while ultimately unsuccessful, reflect a willingness to prioritize the backfield, even at the expense of addressing other needs.

The Path Forward

If Shanahan and Turner see Judkins as a transformational player, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the 49ers invest in him despite the risks. His explosiveness, versatility, and upside make him a tantalizing option for a team seeking to ensure stability behind McCaffrey.

Ultimately, whether or not Judkins dons a 49ers jersey, the team’s commitment to building depth at running back remains steadfast. As Shanahan continues to refine his roster, one thing is certain: the 49ers will always prioritize players who can make an immediate impact on the field, and Quinquon Judkins has all the tools to do just that.