49ers biggest winners, losers from surprising 2022 NFL Draft class
By Peter Panacy
49ers loser: Running back Trey Sermon
The 49ers’ third-round selection of Tyrion Davis-Price could and should be considered a questionable move, as there was still plenty of running back value to be had on day three of the draft. And going this route wholly bucked the notion of head coach Kyle Shanahan finding late-round gems at the position anyway.
Regardless, Davis-Price now finds himself amid a crowded offensive backfield, including last year’s two rookies, Elijah Mitchell and Trey Sermon.
Mitchell, who rushed for 963 yards in 2021, isn’t going anywhere and should be viewed as safe, provided he stays healthy. Sermon, however, can’t quite say the same despite being a third-round selection himself a year ago.
In total, Sermon rushed for a mere 167 yards last season and found himself relegated to either the No. 3 or No. 4 role on the depth chart behind Mitchell, Jeff Wilson Jr. and JaMycal Hasty, all of whom will also be back contending for a roster spot during training camp.
Sure, the Niners could still have plans for Sermon, and Davis-Price’s addition could have a more detrimental impact on someone like Wilson or Hasty instead. Plus, considering how injuries have affected this bunch anyway, it might be OK to stockpile at the position.
Regardless, using such a high pick on Davis-Price doesn’t suggest a ton of confidence in the second-year pro right now.