Final Projections for the 49ers’ 53-man Roster
Running backs
Active Roster: Carlos Hyde, Shaun Draughn, Mike Davis, Kelvin Taylor
Cut: DuJuan Harris
The only concern over Carlos Hyde is whether he will recover from a concussion in time to start Week 1, but it has otherwise been plain sailing for the 49ers starting running back, who appears primed for a big year in Chip Kelly’s system providing he can stay healthy.
Offensive coordinator Curtis Modkins, per Niners Nation, has already said Shaun Draughn is in line to be the No. 2 back, but may have a fight on his hands for snaps with Mike Davis.
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Davis looks significantly improved from the back who averaged just 1.7 yards per carry in 2015, demonstrating burst, agility and power to average 7.8 yards per attempt in preseason, making it near impossible to leave him off the roster.
With the emphasis Kelly puts on the running game, it seems sensible for the Niners to carry four backs and, though much of his carries have come later in games, sixth-round rookie Kelvin Taylor has outplayed DuJuan Harris.
Taylor boasts an impressive blend of vision, quick feet and strength and can catch passes out of the backfield. At 22 years of age, Taylor has much more upside than Harris, who has had issues with ball security in preseason and averaged just 3.1 yards per carry against San Diego.
Next: Wide Receivers