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4w ago

49ers Keep McCaffrey-Centric Backfield as Shanahan Downplays Two-Back Plan

Kyle Shanahan indicates two-back looks with Brian Robinson will be rare to avoid giving defenses favorable personnel.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 09: Christian McCaffrey #23 of the San Francisco 49ers runs against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half at Levi's Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Niners running back Brian Robinson Jr. rushes for a touchdown during the third quarter of last Sunday’s game against the Rams at Levi’s Stadium. 
Niners quarterback Mac Jones hands off to running back Brian Robinson during last Sunday’s game against the Rams at Levi’s Stadium. Robinson had eight carries for 41 yards in the game.
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Overview

  • Christian McCaffrey leads the NFL with 249 touches and just joined the 7,000 rushing/5,000 receiving yards club.
  • Despite his volume, he is averaging a career-low 3.5 yards per carry as San Francisco sits near the bottom in rushing yards and explosive runs through 10 games.
  • Trade pickup Brian Robinson Jr. has produced 94 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries over the last two games and is averaging 3.55 yards after contact per rush, per PFF.
  • Shanahan praised Robinson’s recent surge and said he has earned more carries, but he emphasized that simultaneous usage with McCaffrey will be situational based on defensive responses.
  • The run-game retooling comes after the 49ers declined to pay for a top pass rusher at the deadline, leaving roster questions as they push for a playoff berth at 6-4.