Santa Clara, California – The San Francisco 49ers have faced disappointment with their third-round draft picks in back-to-back seasons when it comes to running backs. Both Ty Davis-Price, a 2022 NFL Draft pick, and Trey Sermon from the 2021 NFL Draft failed to make a significant impact with the team and have now moved on to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Davis-Price, who was the No. 93 overall pick in the 2022 draft, played in only seven games for the 49ers. His rookie season was overshadowed by undrafted running back Jordan Mason, and his position further weakened with the midseason trade for Christian McCaffrey. In total, Davis-Price managed just 120 yards rushing and no touchdowns on 40 rushing attempts during his time with the 49ers.
The 49ers waived Davis-Price on December 5 in order to sign veteran defensive back Logan Ryan, but he was later re-signed to the practice squad after clearing waivers. Despite their efforts in the draft, the 49ers have had little success with their running back picks since 2017, with running back Elijah Mitchell being the most successful pick in recent years.
Meanwhile, Sermon’s time with the 49ers was short-lived, as he played in only nine games and totaled 167 yards and a touchdown on 41 rushing attempts. He then moved on to the Indianapolis Colts after playing just two games for the Eagles in 2022. With only McCaffrey, Mitchell, and Mason left on the 49ers’ roster, the team faces a challenge in the running back position.
Looking back at the 49ers’ recent draft history, it is clear that finding a reliable running back has been a struggle. As they move forward, the team will need to address this position in the coming drafts and free agency in order to bolster their backfield and ensure a more solid running game in the future.