For the duration of his rookie season in 2021, operating back Elijah Mitchell was often relied upon by the 49ers. Even so, with the addition of Christian McCaffrey to the group, Mitchell is getting it challenging to even get on the field. In the current 30-23 victory more than the Los Angeles Rams, Mitchell was one particular of 4 active and healthier players who did not see any action. In contrast, McCaffrey played every single offensive snap for the 49ers. Coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged that the group created a error by not rotating the operating backs and expressed the will need to give Mitchell a lot more playing time.

McCaffrey presently leads the NFL in rushing attempts and yards by way of two weeks, emphasizing his significance to the group. In the Week 1 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers, McCaffrey rushed for 152 yards although Mitchell only played ten snaps. Shanahan explained that the duty for substitutions ordinarily falls on the position coaches, with his concentrate mainly on play-calling. Even so, he acknowledged that he really should have noticed Mitchell’s lack of playing time and advocated for his inclusion.

Regardless of battling injuries through his rookie season, Mitchell emerged as a important contributor when he was on the field. In his final 5 common season games, he had a number of games with more than 20 rushing attempts and carried the ball 27 instances in the 49ers’ playoff-opening win more than the Dallas Cowboys. Even so, Mitchell’s playing time decreased drastically just after McCaffrey joined the group mid-season.

Even though McCaffrey is undoubtedly a best operating back in the league, Mitchell nonetheless deserves a part in the 49ers’ offense. Shanahan recognized the will need to rectify the lack of rotation and guarantee that Mitchell receives a lot more playing time in the future.