3 burning questions for 49ers running backs in 2020

The 49ers have a crowded running back room again in 2020, yet there are far more pressing questions at hand here for Kyle Shanahan.

For a while, the San Francisco 49ers‘ wide receiver room was the only notable portion of the roster dealing with some serious offseason questions, namely the injuries to Deebo Samuel and Richie James.

Now, stemming from the latest news on Raheem Mostert has requested a trade via his agent, the Niners’ running back room seems to have the most pressing question marks heading towards 2020.

Mostert’s desire for more contract security makes some sense. After all, he did lead the team in rushing yards last year with 772, also had the most touchdowns (10) yet still carries zero in guaranteed money on the last two years of his current deal stretching into 2021.

Considering the desire for some security, one should understand Mostert wanting a little more. The only question is whether or not San Francisco bends. And if so, specifically how?

Regardless, Mostert is still just one part of a crowded backfield heading into training camp. The team jettisoned running back Matt Breida to the Miami Dolphins during the NFL Draft. But the 49ers are also getting veteran runner Jerick McKinnon back from a two-year stint on injured reserve, and they also inked undrafted free agents, Washington’s Salvon Ahmed and Baylor’s JaMycal Hasty, following the 2020 draft.

Along with returnees Tevin Coleman and Jeff Wilson, head coach Kyle Shanahan will have a lot on his plate with deciding how to formulate his 53-man roster. It’s likely four will make the cut again, but figuring out who is only part of the pressing questions San Francisco faces with the group this offseason.