The NFL trade rumor mill is always buzzing, and an unexpected name has just been thrust into the spotlight: Isaac Guerendo, the second-year running back for the San Francisco 49ers. The rookie who made a strong impression in the 2024 season is now facing speculation about his future, as the 49ers added two promising running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft, raising questions about whether Guerendo remains part of the team’s long-term plans.
Guerendo: The 49ers’ Rising Star
Isaac Guerendo, a fourth-round pick by the 49ers in the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly proved his worth during his rookie season. Despite playing just 222 offensive snaps, he showcased his potential with 84 carries for 420 yards (averaging 5.0 yards per carry) and 4 touchdowns. Notably, Guerendo’s receiving ability stood out, as he caught 15 of 16 targets for 152 yards, becoming a versatile weapon in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system. In the 7 games where he played at least 10 offensive snaps, Guerendo posted an impressive 14/15 catch rate for 147 yards, projecting to 34 receptions and 357 yards over a full season.
His diverse receiving skills and trust from quarterback Brock Purdy in clutch situations made Guerendo a key contributor, especially when Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers’ star running back, was sidelined. With McCaffrey missing the first 8 games of 2024 due to Achilles tendinitis and later suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 13, Guerendo seized the opportunity to establish himself as a capable backup who could maintain the team’s offensive rhythm.
Trade Rumors: Why Is Guerendo’s Name Surfacing?
Despite his promising performance, Guerendo has unexpectedly been named as a potential trade candidate by Pro Football Network (PFSN). The primary reason stems from the 49ers’ moves in the 2025 draft, where they added two new running backs: Jordan James from Oregon in the fifth round and Corey Kiner, the highest-rated undrafted free agent (UDFA) according to PFSN. Both James and Kiner are seen as decisive runners who fit Shanahan’s zone running scheme, while Guerendo has been critiqued for his “dancing” running style—often hesitating behind the line of scrimmage, leading to less efficient plays.
According to PFSN, these additions suggest the 49ers are seeking a more consistent runner to back up McCaffrey, who is approaching 29 years old and has a concerning injury history. Guerendo’s stats reveal some limitations: he has a negative rushing yards over expectation (RYOE) when running between the tackles, and his rushing efficiency (rushing EPA) outside the tackles is underwhelming. His success rate of 39% is comparable to Ezekiel Elliott’s—a figure that’s not particularly impressive for a young running back.
With McCaffrey and James likely locks for the roster, and Kiner showing potential to secure a spot due to his experience in zone running systems, the 49ers’ running back room is crowded. With only one or two backup spots available, Guerendo could be on the chopping block if he doesn’t improve his decisiveness.
Guerendo’s Value Remains
Despite the rumors, Guerendo is not easily replaceable. His receiving ability is a significant asset, particularly for a team like the 49ers, where Shanahan frequently utilizes running backs in the passing game. With McCaffrey’s recurring injuries, having a versatile back like Guerendo is crucial to maintaining the offense’s flexibility.
Moreover, Guerendo’s physical attributes—combining speed and explosive power—still set him apart from James and Kiner. If he can improve his ability to make quicker decisions on running plays, Guerendo has the potential to solidify his role as the RB2 and serve as an ideal complement to McCaffrey in the 2025 season.
An Uncertain Future
Guerendo’s inclusion in trade rumors doesn’t mean the 49ers have given up on him. However, it reflects the intense competition in the running back room and Shanahan’s uncompromising approach to roster building. With a history of injuries—including hamstring and ankle issues in 2024—Guerendo must prove he’s not only a flash of talent but also a reliable player physically.
The 2025 season will be a pivotal opportunity for Guerendo to define his role in the 49ers’ plans. If he can use training camp to address his weaknesses and earn Shanahan’s trust, the trade rumors will likely fade into obscurity. Conversely, with James and Kiner waiting in the wings, the pressure on Guerendo is immense.
Conclusion
Isaac Guerendo, once a promising rookie, now stands at a critical juncture in his career. The trade rumors may serve as a wake-up call, pushing him to elevate his game and prove his worth. With the talent he’s already displayed and the potential still untapped, Guerendo has every chance to become an indispensable part of the San Francisco 49ers’ offensive machine. All eyes will be on him during the preseason, where the fate of this “breakout star” will be decided.