How Will the San Francisco 49ers Adapt Without Deebo Samuel and Christian McCaffrey?
The San Francisco 49ers have faced challenges in the past with players missing games due to injuries. However, they have never played a game without either Deebo Samuel or Christian McCaffrey, two of their most versatile weapons. This poses a significant challenge for Kyle Shanahan’s offense as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams.
In a recent press conference, Shanahan acknowledged that his playbook won’t necessarily shrink without Samuel and McCaffrey, but he admitted that he will call plays differently. While the number of plays won’t change, there are certain special plays that only those two players can execute. Shanahan will have to adjust the percentage of plays that rely on Samuel and McCaffrey’s unique skills.
Samuel, who is dealing with a calf injury, did not practice on Wednesday. However, Shanahan clarified that his injury does not involve his Achilles tendon, unlike McCaffrey’s injury. The absence of both Samuel and McCaffrey leaves a void in Shanahan’s arsenal, as they are both adept at both running and passing, forcing defenses to make difficult choices in countering them.
So, how will the 49ers adapt without both of these players? Let’s explore their options:
1. Take a page from the past
The 49ers have faced a running back shortage early in the season before. In 2018, Jerick McKinnon, their do-everything back, tore his ACL just before Week 1. This led to fullback Kyle Juszczyk becoming the de facto third-down back. Juszczyk had a career-high 324 receiving yards that season and proved to be a valuable asset. The 49ers have already been utilizing Juszczyk more with McCaffrey out, and he could continue to play a bigger role in the absence of both Samuel and McCaffrey.
2. Roll with a newcomer
While the 49ers have other tailbacks on the roster, they have limited experience. Isaac Guerendo, a rookie with impressive speed and versatility, could be a change-of-pace option. However, he lacks experience and has had limited snaps with the team due to a hamstring injury. Another option is Patrick Taylor Jr., who has experience as a backup runner for the Green Bay Packers. However, he has mainly been a special teams player and hasn’t had many opportunities as a pass catcher. The 49ers could also consider utilizing rookie receiver Jacob Cowing, who has experience lining up in the backfield and is good on jet sweeps and screens.
3. Bring someone from the outside
If the 49ers feel the need to add a versatile tailback, they have options available. Former 49er Matt Breida, who spent the second half of training camp with the team, remains available. Jerick McKinnon, who had an impressive receiving record with the Kansas City Chiefs in recent seasons, could also be a potential addition. The 49ers might also explore a trade with the Miami Dolphins, who have a surplus of running backs. However, they may wait to see how McCaffrey’s Achilles issue progresses before making any drastic moves.
While the 49ers have several options to compensate for the absence of Samuel and McCaffrey, they will need to make strategic choices to maintain their offensive prowess. The upcoming game against the Rams will be a testament to the team’s adaptability and resilience.