49ers GM Trent Baalke wants to get away from using one running back to carry the entire load

Jan 19, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) runs the ball against Seattle Seahawks defensive end Red Bryant (79) during the first half of the 2013 NFC Championship football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

The San Francisco 49ers have had one of the best running backs in the league in their backfield over the past decade with Frank Gore. On the second day of the 2014 NFL Draft, the 49ers traded back, then traded up to select Ohio State Running back Carlos Hyde with the No. 57 overall pick.

The plan, is to use Hyde in short-yardage situations, but the 49ers could also be preparing for life post-Gore.

From CSN Bay Area:

"The 49ers are set up for the end of Frank Gore’s career with the selections of Hyde this year and Marcus Lattimore last year. While Gore is still the starter this season, Hyde should get plenty of action, especially in short-yardage situations. GM Trent Baalke has often talked about wanting to get away from a back who carries the entire load."

Most NFL teams use multiple running backs and featured running backs are almost a thing of the past, so Baalke’s thinking isn’t out of the ordinary.

Home/NFL