49ers: 5 players with the most on the line for the 2018 season

4. RB Jerick McKinnon

The 49ers made the conscious decision to let lead back Carlos Hyde — an asset in the running game, but one of the NFL’s worst RBs in the passing game — test free agency this offseason, where he landed a three-year contract worth over $15 million with the Cleveland Browns.

While Shanahan used fullback Kyle Juszczyk as an “Offensive Weapon” in both the running and passing game, Hyde’s lack of ability as a receiver and pass blocker held the 49ers’ offense back in 2017. Wanting a more versatile back, the 49ers entered into — and eventually won — a bidding war for the services of former Minnesota Vikings running back Jerick McKinnon.

Before the details of McKinnon’s contract were revealed, initial reports outside of the Bay Area were critical of the deal, with reporters calling the deal “puzzling” and “surprising” due to the contract’s potential overall cost:

Those who follow the team closely know to wait for details to emerge before forming conclusions on contracts negotiated by 49ers chief contract negotiator Paraag Marathe. Those who were patient soon learned McKinnon’s contract is a more team-friendly, front-loaded deal that gives San Francisco the ability to part ways with their new feature back after two seasons if he fails to meet expectations.

Still, since he was the only running back available on the market who met Shanahan’s criteria, the 49ers paid top dollar for McKinnon — particularly since the running back has never been used in a featured role at the NFL level. McKinnon has the tools required to succeed, but he will need to prove he’s up for the task in 2018, or the 49ers will be forced to look for a new long-term lead back next offseason.