At the close of training camp this past summer, the San Francisco 49ers looked like they were about to enter the season with one of the deepest running back rooms in the NFL. So deep, in fact, that they had to part ways with Jeff Wilson Jr.-a player fans had grown to love over the years-simply because there wasn’t enough space to keep him.
At the top of the depth chart sat All-Pro Christian McCaffrey, the engine of Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Right behind him was Brian Robinson Jr., a new addition who brought a bruising, downhill style that complemented McCaffrey’s versatility. And then there was Isaac Guerendo, a second-year back who had shown real promise during his rookie campaign in 2024.
Guerendo wasn’t just a developmental piece. He was a legitimate contributor when injuries hit the backfield last season.
With McCaffrey and Jordan Mason (now with the Vikings) sidelined, Guerendo stepped up in a big way. He started three games, ran for 420 yards on 84 carries-an even 5.0 yards per attempt-and found the end zone three times.
He also added 152 receiving yards on 15 catches, showing the kind of dual-threat ability that fits well in Shanahan’s system.
But fast forward to Week 13 of the 2025 season, and Guerendo’s role in San Francisco has all but vanished.
The 49ers' backfield has moved on-and Guerendo’s been left behind
To be fair, the circumstances around Guerendo have changed dramatically. McCaffrey has stayed healthy all year, which is a game-changer for how the 49ers structure their offense. And Robinson has done exactly what the team hoped-providing reliable, physical depth behind McCaffrey without needing to take over games.
Still, what’s surprising isn’t just Guerendo’s reduced role-it’s his complete absence from the offense. Through 13 weeks, he hasn’t logged a single offensive snap.
No carries. No targets.
Not even a formation appearance. For a player who once looked like a rising piece in this offense, that’s a steep fall.
Even on special teams, where young players often carve out a role when they’re not getting offensive touches, Guerendo’s presence has faded. He’s no longer returning kicks, a job that’s now handled by Robinson and wide receiver Skyy Moore.
What’s next for Guerendo?
The writing may already be on the wall. The 49ers used a draft pick this past spring on Oregon running back Jordan James, adding yet another name to a crowded backfield. And with McCaffrey still performing at an elite level and Robinson proving to be a dependable second option, it’s tough to see where Guerendo fits into the long-term picture.
That’s not to say Guerendo can’t play-his rookie numbers speak for themselves. But in a league where roster spots are always at a premium, especially at the running back position, opportunity matters just as much as talent. And right now, the opportunity just isn’t there in San Francisco.
Unless something shifts-an injury, a trade, or a change in offensive philosophy-Guerendo’s time with the 49ers may be nearing its end. It’s a tough break for a player who answered the call when the team needed him most last year, but that’s the reality of life in an NFL backfield.