Elijah Mitchell

Mitchell's not the flashiest RB prospect in this class, but he's very productive in his opportunities. He thrives on running downhill and building up a head of steam. Would be excellent in a downhill running scheme. Average vision between the tackles though and won't be able to create much for himself. Will need an offensive line in the NFL that's able to create running lanes for him that he can easily identify and the exploit. Good short area burst for a player of his size, especially when he's running downhill. Won't be able to stop/start like many of the other players in this class, but has the ability to get the ball on the handoff and get upfield quickly. Struggles to change direction in the sense of lateral mobility. Excellent ability to create space through quick and strategic movements in tight windows, but will not be the type of running back to approach the line of scrimmage and then jump laterally a gap or two to exploit a new running lane. His footwork and center of gravity won't allow it.Can punish a defender that meets him in the hole. Good size and is willing to use force to pick up additional yardage. Surprising top-end speed for a player of his size. Won't pull away from every defender in the NFL for a 60-yard run, but has the ability to pick up chunk gains if the lane is there. Hard to bring down due to his elusiveness in tight windows with small movements, but does not consistently break tackles in the open field. Can keep his legs churning, but this won't be his best trait or how he wins in the NFL.Excellent pass-catcher out of the backfield. Good hand-eye coordination and able to adjust to the ball while it's in the air and make a tough grab. Utilized on a screen too on tape, which is rare for a CFB RB. Certainly won't soak up targets in the NFL, but does have the ability to be highly effective in the opportunity he'll receive.Willing participant in pass protection. Tends to drop his head from time to time, but does have the size and base that will be able to stand up to oncoming defenders. Certainly not his best trait, but also not a liability.

Elijah Mitchell picks up 62 total yards in return to action

San Francisco 49ers Running Back Elijah Mitchell had nine carries for 43 yards and added two receptions for 19 yards in Sunday's Week 5 loss to the Cardinals.

Fantasy Impact

Mitchell was seeing game action for the first time since Week 2 and looked good. He saw the vast majority of carries and targets out of the Niners' backfield on Sunday but it was quarterback Trey Lance that led the team in rushing with 89 yards. It's worth noting that fellow back Trey Sermon had just one carry for seven yards in the contest. Mitchell looks to be the preferred option in the San Francisco backfield but he should just be considered a flex option for now due to his limited volume. The 49ers are on bye next week and will host the Colts in Week 7.