SF 49ers: 3 players who should be on the trade block

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Tevin Coleman #26 of the San Francisco 49ers. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

No. 3: SF 49ers Running Back Tevin Coleman

Concluding this list of 49ers who should be on the trade block is running back Tevin Coleman. Coleman came to the Niners via free agency in 2019 from the Atlanta Falcons, where he had previously worked with Kyle Shanahan.

Coleman has been a good asset for San Francisco, playing well in Shanahan’s rushing attack as the primary tailback used most often on early downs and within the first half to test opponents’ defenses.

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However, the Niners have a very deep and talented backfield, led by Raheem Mostert. With Jerick McKinnon playing well so far this season, too, after finally returning from injury, it’s beginning to seem as though Coleman may be unnecessary in the offense. Mostert is undoubtedly the 49ers’ lead back, and now McKinnon has been shown to be Shanahan’s preferred pass-catching back.

Although Shanahan has shown a preference to use three running backs interchangeably for the offense, backup Jeff Wilson Jr. has proven himself more than capable of being the 49ers’ third back after Mostert and McKinnon, and rookie JaMmycal Hasty showed promise in limited action in Week 3.

Although Coleman is certainly more talented than Wilson and Hasty, those two can easily fill his role at a much lower cost. Mostert and McKinnon are clearly the leading backs, and the SF 49ers should look to capitalize on Coleman’s solid performance last season. Running backs are always needed in the NFL, especially due to their tendency for injury, so the 49ers should look to move Coleman to a needy team.

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The Niners still have a very good chance to compete this NFL season. However, they will very likely be making some trades to perfect their roster for a hopeful postseason run. Coleman, Dante Pettis, and Ahkello Witherspoon should all be on the trade block as the Niners look to make moves this season.