The San Francisco 49ers have stunned the NFL community by selecting a relatively unknown running back from Oregon, Cody James, in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft to serve as a potential successor to their star player, Christian McCaffrey. This pick, acquired through the trade of wide receiver Deebo Samuel, has sparked widespread discussion among fans and analysts, as the team looks to bolster its running back depth amid concerns about McCaffrey’s injury history.
A Bold Move in the Draft
With Christian McCaffrey sidelined for much of the 2024 season due to Achilles tendon and knee injuries, the 49ers recognized the need for a reliable backup and eventual replacement. Head coach Kyle Shanahan, known for his zone-based run scheme, targeted James for his fit within the team’s offensive system. During a post-draft video call with reporters, James highlighted the similarities between the 49ers’ playbook and the one he thrived in at Oregon, stating, “I think they have a great outside-zone run scheme that I’m pretty good at, that I did a lot at Oregon. So, I think I’ll fit pretty well into their scheme.”
James, a speedy and versatile back, was an unexpected choice, especially given the team’s decision to trade away backup running back Jordan Mason to the Minnesota Vikings earlier in the offseason. The 49ers’ front office, including directors of player personnel Tariq Ahmad, RJ Gillen, and director of scouting Josh Williams, expressed confidence in James’ potential to fill the void left by Mason and complement McCaffrey.
Why the Surprise?
Christian McCaffrey has been the heart of the 49ers’ offense, earning the 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year award with 2,023 yards and 21 touchdowns. However, at 29 years old and with a history of injuries—including a season-ending knee injury in 2024—his long-term durability is a concern. The decision to draft James, a fifth-round pick with limited name recognition, over more heralded prospects or established veterans, caught many off guard.
The move was further amplified by its connection to the Deebo Samuel trade, which saw the 49ers part ways with the versatile wide receiver for a fifth-round pick. Fans voiced their reactions on X, with some praising the team’s forward-thinking approach and others questioning whether James could handle the pressure of stepping into McCaffrey’s role. One user posted, “Cody James? Never heard of him, but if Shanahan sees something, I’m intrigued.” The pick reflects the 49ers’ strategy to get younger and manage their salary cap, especially with quarterback Brock Purdy’s impending contract extension looming.
Fitting into the 49ers’ System
James’ skill set aligns with Shanahan’s vision for the 49ers’ offense. His experience in Oregon’s outside-zone scheme makes him a natural fit, and his speed adds a dynamic element to the backfield. While McCaffrey remains the starter, James is expected to compete for backup snaps alongside veteran Patrick Taylor Jr., who was re-signed in the offseason. The 49ers’ history of rotating multiple running backs—often using four in a single season—underscores the importance of depth at the position.
Shanahan has expressed optimism about McCaffrey’s recovery, stating, “Christian is healthy. He’s doing great.” However, the team’s decision to draft James signals a proactive approach to preparing for life after McCaffrey, whose $38 million contract extension runs through 2027. James will have the opportunity to learn from one of the NFL’s best while developing under Shanahan’s coaching staff, known for maximizing running back talent.
What’s Next for San Francisco?
As the 49ers head into the 2025 season, the focus will be on integrating James into the offense while ensuring McCaffrey returns to his elite form. The team’s draft strategy, which included 11 picks, reflects a broader effort to rebuild around a younger core, particularly after trading veterans like Samuel and losing defensive stars like Javon Hargrave and Leonard Floyd. With Purdy’s contract negotiations on the horizon, the 49ers are balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term sustainability.
For now, Cody James remains an enigma—a fifth-round pick with the potential to become a household name or a footnote in 49ers history. Fans will be watching closely to see if this surprise selection can rise to the occasion and help San Francisco maintain its status as an NFC powerhouse. Follow the latest developments and fan reactions on X as the 49ers gear up for the new season.