Niner Noise
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Predicting the 49ers’ 2018 starting lineup after opening wave of NFL free agency

By Peter Panacy

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers congratulates Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers congratulates Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers after scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /
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49ers Jerick McKinnon
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – JANUARY 14: Jerick McKinnon #21 of the Minnesota Vikings carries the ball and stiff arms defender P.J. Williams #26 of the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter of the NFC Divisional Playoff game on January 14, 2018 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

Running Back

Fullback: Kyle Juszczyk

Halfback: Matt Breida, Jerick McKinnon

Another change from our previous prediction. And a good one.

Former Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon was another one of San Francisco’s big free-agent signings this offseason, replacing Carlos Hyde, who now joins the Cleveland Browns. On paper, one might question why the Niners spent big money on a tailback who has never reached 600 rushing yards in his career and averaged just 3.8 yards per carry last season.

But that’s where stats can be deceiving.

McKinnon, also a pass-catching back, is the ideal scheme fit for head coach Kyle Shanahan. Niner Noise broke down how that will work here, but you can also get an idea by watching the video, courtesy of Better Rivals’ Oscar Aparicio, below:

Related Story: 49ers film room: What Jerick McKinnon brings to Kyle Shanahan's offense

Shanahan reiterated McKinnon is the starter for 2018, and that’s a good thing. Paired with 2017 rookie tailback, Matt Breida, this Georgia Southern tandem seems to epitomize the kind of running backs Shanahan prefers in his offense. They’re both versatile, excel in outside zone and catch passes out of the backfield.

If you’re thinking McKinnon will thrive in this offense, you’re right.