3 49ers UDFAs who might steal a roster spot in training camp

The 49ers head into training camp with a loaded roster, but these 3 UDFAs might be able to win themselves a roster spot.

The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2024 season as one of the best teams in the NFL, armed with arguably the league's most talented roster and no real areas of need.

But as previous training camps have shown, there are jobs to be won, and the Niners typically allow for their less-heralded players to compete for a roster spot. Former players like Azeez Al-Shaair, who ascended to a starting linebacker position, and current running back Jordan Mason, who beat out former third-round pick Trey Sermon as a UDFA to make the roster, are examples of how young players can fight their way onto the roster.

With training camp now in session, these three UDFAs have the best shot of grabbing a spot on the 53-man roster.

UDFA 1: RB Cody Schrader

Cody Schrader has a tough hill to climb in a crowded and competitive running back room, with stalwart Christian McCaffrey leading the way. Schrader's roster competition includes oft-injured back Elijah Mitchell, former UDFA Jordan Mason, fourth-round draft pick Isaac Guerendo, and Patrick Taylor Jr.

The 49ers typically carry three to four running backs on the roster along with Kyle Juczyzck, which leaves almost no room for error with Schrader.

But Schrader fits the mold of former unheralded running backs who have clawed their way onto the roster. He runs aggressively, fights for extra yards, and perhaps most importantly, does not turn the football over.

If there was ever a way to get on head coach Kyle Shanahan's good side, it would be to have these characteristics.

With Guerendo dealing with a hamstring issue, and Mitchell's frequent battles with injuries, Schrader's path becomes a little more clear. Should Guerendo not be healthy enough to make it out of camp, Schrader might just seal that final running back spot.