San Francisco 49ers: Some Solid Options For The Second Overall Pick

2 of 7

Nov 12, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) celebrates his touchdown in the first quarter against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /

Christian McCaffrey (RB – Stanford)

Carlos Hyde is entering the final year of his rookie deal. And while a fantastic back, he hasn’t been the most durable. Hyde has not been available for all 16 games once, in his three season career so far. When he’s healthy, Hyde is explosive. The key phrase there is “when he’s healthy.”

The 49ers may look to re-sign Hyde after this season, they may not. Either way, it wouldn’t hurt to have a solid, young backup who can augment the running attack or take over the bulk of the carries when needed.

Christian McCaffrey could be just that guy.

Nov 19, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) carries the ball against the California Golden Bears during the third quarter at Memorial Stadium. The Stanford Cardinal defeated the California Golden Bears 45-31. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

After an electric career at Stanford, McCaffrey has earned billing as one of the very top backs in this year’s draft class. Though the running back position has been devalued in recent seasons, having a potent ground game is still essential.

McCaffrey is about 30 pounds lighter than Hyde, but he makes up for the lack of size with his explosiveness. Last season, he averaged better than six yards a carry in amassing 1,603 yards on the ground, and racked up another 310 receiving yards. As a pass catching back, he runs great routes, has great hands, and is solid in open space.

He’s proven that he can be a bellcow and can carry a team’s running game, as he did just that for Stanford. And for defenses having to account for him, that could really help take some of the pressure off the quarterback and open up the passing game.

He’s more finesse than a bruiser, but he could add some real pop to San Francisco’s ground attack.