3 options 49ers have to replace running back Tevin Coleman

Low-risk pickup: Jay Ajayi

Should the 49ers consider outside players, the best option, in my opinion, would be Jay Ajayi. He comes with no risk and almost infinite reward.

There are players with more experience in the Kyle Shanahan offense, but after seeing former Niners runner Alfred Morris fumble at the goal line last year, the 49ers probably look in a different direction.

That’s why Ajayi provides the perfect option, even better than promoting Jeff Wilson.

Ajayi is more talented than Wilson, but still provides that same contrast to the 49ers current stable of backs.

The linked tweet of Ajayi’s highlight is old, to be sure, but it provides a good look into what Ajayi can offer a team. He keeps his legs churning and always falls forward.

The 49ers could use that on their roster.

And when Tevin Coleman gets healthy, the 49ers would have three running backs, plus Kyle Juszcyck on the roster. But Juszcyck can easily play tight end, allowing them to cut Kaden Smith or Levine Toilolo.

The only reason Ajayi hasn’t been signed is health. Coming off a torn ACL is always an issue for players, and a team can never know how well a player has recovered. Ajayi reportedly has been cleared to play, per CBS Sports, so there is no issue of availability at the get go.

But as mentioned several times, there is no downfall to signing Ajayi. Should he underperform, the 49ers cut him and follow the Wilson plan.

Should he play well, it gives one of the better offensive play callers another weapon to use. And that could impact in far more than covering Coleman’s loss.