San Francisco 49ers: Running backs primed for an explosive 2019 season
No. 5: Alfred Morris
It is possible, however unlikely, that Alfred Morris is a 49er come the 2019 season. The Niners signed Morris to a one-year deal for veteran’s minimum following injuries to both Jerick McKinnon and Matt Breida in the preseason.
Lacking depth at the position, Morris seemed like a good short-term fit, given his previous playing experience with Kyle Shanahan’s offensive scheme. Morris played under Shanahan during his time with the Washington Redskins in 2012 and 2013, reaching career-high production. He would rush for back-to-back 1,000-plus yard seasons with a whopping 20 touchdowns.
While initially utilized as Breida’s backup, Morris saw limited game time as the season progressed, with Shanahan preferring to go with rookie Jeff Wilson. Morris finished the season with 428 rushing yards, averaging 3.9 yards per attempt with two touchdowns.
Morris saved his best for last, rushing for 111 yards and a touchdown in Week 17 against the Los Angeles Rams:
#49ers scoring drive: 8 plays, 75 yards in 3:56 resulting in the 1-yard TD for Alfred Morris.#GoNiners pic.twitter.com/XIZX76z3Dw
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) December 30, 2018
Should all the 49ers’ running backs be healthy come preseason, expect to see Morris wearing another team’s colors.