San Francisco 49ers’ Running Back Room Set for a Major Overhaul in 2025
Big Changes on the Horizon The San Francisco 49ers are on the verge of a significant shift in their running back lineup for the 2025 season. With key players Jordan Mason and Elijah Mitchell heading to free agency, the franchise must decide how to restructure the depth chart behind star running back Christian McCaffrey. While they selected Isaac Guerendo in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, additional reinforcements might be necessary to maintain a well-rounded backfield.
Draft or Free Agency? The 49ers have a couple of viable options to reinforce their running game. They could once again turn to the draft, tapping into a class that is reportedly rich in running back talent. However, another intriguing possibility lies in free agency—bringing in a seasoned veteran to provide stability and experience in the backfield.
According to KNBR host and podcaster Larry Kruger, one name stands out as a strong candidate for the 49ers: Najee Harris. Currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Harris might be an ideal fit as a powerful complement to McCaffrey’s versatile skill set.
Najee Harris: A Perfect Fit? Kruger believes Harris could bring an essential power element to the 49ers’ offensive scheme, particularly in short-yardage situations.
“I don’t know what the running back market is going to look like, and I don’t know the 49ers’ thinking, but I do know Najee Harris, and I know that he’s a Bay Area kid,” Kruger stated. “I know he would love to play for the 49ers, and I know the agent pretty well, Doug Hendrickson. I love Najee as a power back. The 49ers might need a power element to punch it in inside the five.”
This could be a key asset for head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system, which has thrived with a blend of explosive, elusive backs and bruising power runners. Harris, known for his strong north-south running ability, would provide a unique balance to McCaffrey’s dynamic playmaking style.
Market Factors Could Shape Harris’ Decision The biggest challenge in acquiring Harris may come down to finances. Running back salaries have fluctuated in recent years, with many teams reluctant to offer long-term, lucrative contracts due to the position’s wear and tear. Harris, a former first-round pick, may seek a substantial payday, but the depth of the 2025 draft class could depress the overall market value for running backs.
“I gotta think he’s gonna get more money than they can afford in free agency, but maybe not,” Kruger added. “I mean, he doesn’t have great numbers, and I don’t know, I’m not sure how the league views Najee and what kind of market he’s going to have.”
If the market for veteran running backs proves limited, Harris might find the opportunity to join San Francisco appealing. The chance to play for a competitive team, in an offense designed to maximize running backs, could be an enticing proposition—especially if he hopes to reset his market value for future free agency.
A Role Change for Harris? One potential hurdle in this scenario is the shift in role for Harris. Currently a lead back in Pittsburgh, he would likely need to embrace a committee role in San Francisco, sharing carries with McCaffrey and potentially Guerendo. However, this could work in Harris’ favor by reducing his workload and extending his career longevity.
Serving as the “thunder” to McCaffrey’s “lightning,” Harris could thrive in a system that doesn’t require him to carry the entire rushing attack. Such an arrangement might also allow him to showcase his skill set in a highly efficient offense, ultimately increasing his value heading into the 2026 offseason.
Final Thoughts While nothing is set in stone, the idea of Najee Harris joining the 49ers is an intriguing possibility. His combination of power and durability makes him an ideal complement to McCaffrey, and if financial considerations align, the move could benefit both Harris and the team. Whether through the draft or free agency, one thing is certain: the 49ers’ running back room is poised for significant changes in 2025.
