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Predicting 49ers’ running back depth chart with Tevin Coleman

By Matt Stephenson

TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 30: Running back Tevin Coleman #26 of the Atlanta Falcons high steps into the end zone to score in the third quarter of the game at Raymond James Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Will Vragovic/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - DECEMBER 30: Running back Tevin Coleman #26 of the Atlanta Falcons high steps into the end zone to score in the third quarter of the game at Raymond James Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Will Vragovic/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 04: Running back Tevin Coleman #26 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with the ball in the first quarter against the Washington Redskins at FedExField on November 4, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 04: Running back Tevin Coleman #26 of the Atlanta Falcons runs with the ball in the first quarter against the Washington Redskins at FedExField on November 4, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

No. 1: Tevin Coleman

It was a tough decision deciding between Tevin Coleman and Jerick McKinnon for the No. 1 position. While Breida was always going to be my No. 2, this choice was one I had to put some thought into. In the end, what it all came down to was the sheer unknown with McKinnon and how he will bounce back from his injury.

Shanahan and Coleman have history together from Shanahan’s time in Atlanta as offensive coordinator. He knows what Coleman is capable of and how to utilize him to the best of his potential. Playing in all 16 games during his 2018 season also helped him lock down the starter role. There is also no concern regarding playing ability after being sidelined for one year like McKinnon.

Coleman finished up 2018 with 167 carries for 800 rushing yards, averaging 4.8 yards per attempt and four touchdowns. He had 32 receptions for 276 receiving yards, averaging 8.6 yards per reception and five touchdowns.

Next. 49ers 2019 free agency tracker: Live updates, news and reports. dark

Unless there’s any surprise cuts, we’ll likely have to wait until the start of the regular season to see how Shanahan’s actual depth chart plays out. However, as it stands, this is my prediction for the coming year.