SF 49ers: 4 best storylines over first six weeks of 2020

SF 49ers Good Storyline No. 4. Jerick McKinnon’s comeback

When the SF 49ers retained running back Jerick McKinnon on a restructured deal last offseason, there was a collective groan from the 49er Faithful. After all, “Jet” McKinnon had missed his first two seasons with the Niners with an ACL tear and subsequent complications after signing a four-year, $30 million contract as a free agent in 2017.

And while McKinnon is still fairly young for a running back, at just 27 years-old, many felt with fellow tailback Raheem Mostert’s breakout 2019 season and the return of veteran Tevin Coleman, the team should cut their losses and simply move on from McKinnon.

But McKinnon took a restructured deal, and thank goodness he did.

He has filled in admirably amid injuries to Mostert and Coleman and will do so again for the next few games. After starting in place of Mostert in Weeks 3 and 4, as Mostert dealt with a high-ankle sprain, he will once again step into the lead back role with Mostert shelved on short-term injured reserve for another three weeks with that same injury.

McKinnon has shown his versatility in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense, rushing 40 times for 211 yards and two touchdowns, while hauling in 17 passes for 117 yards and a touchdown so far this season.

After his setback last season, it seemed a longshot McKinnon could return this season and have any impact on offense. Thus far, McKinnon has provided a steady, veteran presence in the face of the team’s injury issues.

And while he seemed to struggle against the LA Rams last Sunday, he will see even more opportunities in the coming weeks with Mostert out.

Hopefully, McKinnon stays healthy and continues building on a solid 2020 season.