Jerick McKinnon

There was a time last year when McKinnon was being drafted as a top-12 fantasy running back. That was until he tore his ACL. While he was being overdrafted last year, his price is much more appealing as we head into 2019. He'll be the primary pass-catching running back in the offense, as the 49ers had the option to release him prior to April without paying his 2019 salary, but they didn't, and Kyle Shanahan says he will be a big part of their offense. He's far from a sure thing, but given his price, he's worth a shot as your RB4.

Jerick McKinnon expected to open 2019 as 49ers' RB1

49ers HC Kyle Shanahan told the press that RB Jerick McKinnon (ACL) is expected to open 2019 as the team's RB1.

Fantasy Impact

Shanahan also stated that McKinnon is on track in his recovery from a torn ACL suffered during the 2018 preseason, which is significant if he is, in fact, going to be the 49ers' featured back come Week 1. However, because Matt Brieda flashed last season, the expectation is for both backs to have a role in the offense and hold fantasy value. If the 49ers tender RFA Raheem Mostert, he'd likely round out San Francisco's running back depth chart barring any unforeseen changes or injuries.