Pro Football & Sports Network contributor Owain Jones recently named one Offensive Rookie of the Year contender for each of the NFL’s 32 teams. For the San Francisco 49ers, a team that prioritized defense in the 2025 NFL Draft with five straight defensive picks, the choice was not straightforward. The 49ers didn’t select an offensive player until the fourth round—No. 138 overall—making Jones’ selection a challenging one. Ultimately, he named fifth-round pick, former Oregon running back Jordan James, as the 49ers’ candidate for the award.
Jordan James: A Potential Fit in Shanahan’s System
Jones’ reasoning for selecting James hinges on the proven success of head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system, particularly its ability to elevate running backs, even those drafted in later rounds. “Over the years, the Kyle Shanahan system has consistently produced exceptional rookie seasons for running backs, including those drafted in later rounds,” Jones explained. “Jordan James had 1,267 rushing yards on 233 carries in 2024 and has the potential to be the next breakout star in Shanahan’s offense.”
James, who showcased his talent at Oregon with a strong 2024 college season, possesses the physical tools and versatility to thrive in San Francisco’s zone-running scheme. Shanahan’s offense has a history of turning unheralded running backs into productive contributors, with players like Raheem Mostert and Elijah Mitchell emerging as stars in recent years. However, James faces a steep challenge in earning the kind of playing time necessary to compete for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
A Crowded Backfield: McCaffrey and Guerendo Lead the Way
The biggest obstacle for James is the 49ers’ crowded backfield. Star running back Christian McCaffrey, one of the NFL’s premier dual-threat backs, remains the centerpiece of San Francisco’s offense. After missing all but four games last season due to injuries, McCaffrey is healthy heading into 2025 and expected to dominate touches as both a runner and pass-catcher. Behind him is second-year back Isaac Guerendo, who proved his worth last season by averaging five yards per carry in a larger-than-expected role.
With McCaffrey and Guerendo firmly entrenched atop the depth chart, James is likely competing for the third running back spot at best. Last season’s injury-riddled campaign, which saw McCaffrey, backup Jordan Mason (since traded to the Minnesota Vikings), and even Guerendo miss time, forced the 49ers to rely on younger players. However, barring a similar catastrophe in 2025, it’s difficult to envision James receiving the volume of carries needed to post award-worthy numbers.
Other Offensive Rookies: Watkins Shines, but Role Is Uncertain
While James was Jones’ pick, another 49ers offensive rookie might have a better shot at a meaningful role in 2025: wide receiver Jordan Watkins. Watkins, drafted later than James, has turned heads during the offseason with his speed and route-running ability. With San Francisco’s receiving corps featuring established stars like Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, Watkins could still carve out a role as a rotational receiver or in specific packages, especially if he continues to impress in training camp.
Other offensive rookies face their own challenges. Quarterback Kurtis Rourke, another late-round pick, is still recovering from ACL surgery and is unlikely to see significant playing time behind starter Brock Purdy. Wide receiver Junior Bergen is expected to contribute primarily on special teams as a returner, limiting his offensive opportunities. The 49ers’ only other offensive draft pick, guard Connor Colby, is unlikely to generate the kind of statistical output required for Offensive Rookie of the Year consideration, as offensive linemen rarely receive such accolades.
The Path to Offensive Rookie of the Year
For Jordan James to emerge as a legitimate Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate, he would need an extraordinary set of circumstances. A significant injury to McCaffrey or Guerendo could thrust him into a larger role, as was the case with Guerendo last season. However, even in that scenario, James would need to produce exceptional numbers to stand out among other NFL rookies, many of whom were higher draft picks with clearer paths to playing time.
Alternatively, James could make an impact as a complementary piece in Shanahan’s offense, perhaps contributing as a change-of-pace back or in specific situational roles. His college production suggests he has the talent to make plays when given the opportunity, but the 49ers’ depth at running back makes it a tall order.
Outlook for 2025
While Owain Jones’ selection of Jordan James as the 49ers’ Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate highlights the potential of Shanahan’s system to unlock hidden gems, the reality of San Francisco’s roster makes James’ path to the award a difficult one. With Christian McCaffrey and Isaac Guerendo leading the way, and other rookies like Jordan Watkins potentially making a bigger immediate impact, James would need both opportunity and exceptional performance to compete for the honor. For now, 49ers fans can look forward to seeing how James and the team’s other offensive rookies develop in what promises to be a competitive 2025 season.