49ers vs. Packers: 5 must-watch storylines for 2022 preseason opener

Trey Sermon #28 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Trey Sermon #28 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Trey Sermon, San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers running back Trey Sermon (28) Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /

49ers vs. Packers storyline No. 2: The running back pecking order

Somewhat related to the previous two storylines fans will want to watch between the Niners and Packers, yet how Kyle Shanahan elects to formulate his running back room this season will be quite the development.

Especially with the understanding San Francisco will want to run the ball a lot to take pressure off first-year starting quarterback Trey Lance this season.

Tyrion Davis-Price was drafted to be a tough, physical tackle who could “lead off” in games and excel in those short-yardage situations in which the 49ers struggled last season, yet he’s currently ranked fifth on the team’s unofficial depth chart, which suggests the Niners will start featuring more experienced tailbacks like Jeff Wilson Jr., Trey Sermon and JaMycal Hasty before turning to Davis-Price in the game.

Assuming Shanahan rests presumed No. 1 tailback Elijah Mitchell, of course.

Plus, with undrafted rookie Jordan Mason in the mix, watching how each running back handles a crowded depth chart and tries to separate from the pack will be an enticing development between now and Week 1 anyway.

Davis-Price’s roster spot is likely safe, but his role is certainly an unknown.