The San Francisco 49ers’ running back room is undergoing a significant overhaul, and veteran Patrick Taylor Jr. finds himself on the outside looking in. After appearing in 13 games last season, Taylor’s time with the 49ers may be coming to an abrupt end, with his final steps at Organized Team Activities (OTAs) signaling a surprising shift in the team’s plans. The reason for his likely departure? An influx of younger, more explosive talent that has reshaped the 49ers’ backfield.
A Crowded Backfield
This offseason, the 49ers made bold moves to bolster their running back depth. The team traded Jordan Mason and a 2025 fifth-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings for a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. The trade wasn’t entirely shocking, given the emergence of rookie Isaac Guerendo, who showed flashes of brilliance in his debut season. With a healthy Christian McCaffrey anchoring the backfield and Guerendo proving his worth, the 49ers clearly prioritized youth and versatility.
But the team didn’t stop there. In addition to re-signing Patrick Taylor to a one-year deal, the 49ers drafted Jordan James in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft and signed undrafted free agent Corey Kiner. They also brought back Israel Abanikanda, a waiver claim from last season. With McCaffrey, Guerendo, James, and fullback Kyle Juszczyk locked into roster spots, the competition for the remaining spots—likely just one on the active roster or practice squad—has become fierce.
Young Talent Steals the Spotlight
During OTAs and minicamp, the spotlight shifted to the younger running backs, particularly James and Kiner. According to Grant Cohn of San Francisco 49ers on SI, Jordan James made an impression during the team’s second minicamp practice, ripping off a 15-yard run that showcased his explosiveness and vision. James, a fifth-round pick, has the potential to add a dynamic element to the 49ers’ ground game, making him a strong candidate for a roster spot.
Corey Kiner, the undrafted free agent from the University of Cincinnati, also turned heads. At 5-foot-9, Kiner may not have elite speed (4.57 40-yard dash), but his back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons in college highlight his productivity. His quick burst and ability to accelerate out of cuts make him a threat for big plays, further crowding the backfield and putting pressure on veterans like Taylor.
Taylor’s Uphill Battle
For Patrick Taylor Jr., the 27-year-old veteran, the writing appears to be on the wall. Last season, Taylor appeared in 13 games, accumulating 183 rushing yards and a touchdown on 39 carries. While he contributed significantly on special teams (120 snaps) and saw increased offensive snaps (172) due to injuries in the backfield, his role was primarily as a depth piece. Unfortunately for Taylor, the 49ers’ investment in younger, high-upside players has diminished his chances of sticking around.
The lack of buzz around Taylor during OTAs and minicamp is telling. While James and Kiner earned praise for their performances, Taylor’s name was noticeably absent from reports. In a backfield loaded with talent, his experience and special teams contributions may not be enough to secure a spot, especially when the team is prioritizing youth and explosiveness.
An Unexpected Reason for Departure
What makes Taylor’s potential departure unexpected is the timing and context. In any other year, a player with his experience and versatility might have easily secured a practice squad spot or even a place on the 53-man roster. However, the 49ers’ aggressive moves to inject youth into their backfield have changed the equation. The emergence of James and Kiner, combined with Guerendo’s breakout rookie season and McCaffrey’s return to full health, has left little room for a veteran like Taylor.
What’s Next for Taylor?
As training camp approaches, Taylor faces an uphill climb to make the final roster. If James and Kiner continue to impress, the 49ers may opt to keep one or both on the practice squad, leaving Taylor as the odd man out. While his special teams experience could give him an edge in some situations, the team’s focus on building for the future makes it increasingly likely that Taylor’s time in San Francisco is coming to an end.
For a player who stepped up when injuries plagued the 49ers’ backfield last season, the lack of a clear role in 2025 is a tough pill to swallow. Taylor’s final steps at OTAs may mark the end of his tenure with the 49ers, but his experience and work ethic could open doors with another team looking for a reliable veteran presence.
As the 49ers prepare for a competitive season, their running back room is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic in the NFL. For Patrick Taylor Jr., however, the influx of new talent has made his path to the roster steeper than ever.