San Francisco 49ers’ Running Back Depth Chart

In 2011 Frank Gore was the main back for the 49ers and his primary backup was Kendall Hunter. Hunter ran for 473 yards with 2 touchdowns in 16 games. The San Francisco 49ers are one of very few teams who play

Jan 14, 2012; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) warms up before the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game against the New Orleans Saints at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-US PRESSWIRE

smash mouth football. They will run it down your throat and  on defense they will hit you into submission. With Kendall Hunter the 49ers didn’t really have that big brute of a back that they needed behind their pro bowl running back Frank Gore.

During the offseason of 2012 the 49ers agreed to sign veteran running back Brandon Jacobs, who recently came off a super bowl victory with the New York Giants.  Standing at 6’4 264 pounds, Brandon Jacobs is one of the most physical runners in the NFL. To have a one two punch with Frank Gore and Brandon Jacobs causes fear for all opponents.

The 49ers also have Kendall Hunter, Anthony Dixon, and LaMicheal James. Now the Jacobs is the primary backup to Gore Dixon and James don’t really see much action while Hunter is an important return man. He can return punts and kickoffs. With the addition of Jacobs the 49ers have a great balance at the running back position. They have a great balance of power and finesse which they hope will lead them to a super bowl.