San Francisco 49ers: 5 burning questions in 2018

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: A detailed view of a San Francisco 49ers helmet is seen resting on a bench post during the NFL football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the San Francisco 49ers by the score of 33-10. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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4. Is Jerick McKinnon ready to lead a backfield?

At the beginning of free agency the 49ers signed McKinnon to a four-year deal worth nearly $37 million. That’s a lot of dough for a guy who has never truly been a lead back. McKinnon has been in the league for four seasons, and only once did he lead the Vikings in rushing. Granted, he has been stuck behind a future Hall of Famer in Adrian Peterson. Essentially, injuries in consecutive seasons gave him the opportunity, and he took advantage.

In his four seasons, McKinnon has rushed for 538, 271, 539, and 570 yards (2014-17 respectively). That isn’t the mark of a franchise running back, but it is awfully consistent. Luckily, where the former Viking provides a lot of his value is a pass-catching threat out of the backfield. In a league that values such versatility, having a back that can do both is a huge advantage.

Yes, McKinnon has a lot to prove, but the 49er’s front office shrewdly gave themselves an out after one season. McKinnon’s 2018 contract has $11.7 million in guaranteed money, but starting in 2019 his contract is only guaranteed for injury (meaning they could cut him for poor performances). He got his payday, now he just needs to prove that he has what it takes to be the focal point of a rushing attack.

In year two, Shanahan is going out and getting the guys he wants. McKinnon is one of those guys, and unless given reason otherwise, fans should trust their coaches’ judgement. McKinnon is very similar to Tevin Coleman, who Shanahan coached to success in Atlanta. If all goes well, this could be one of the 49er’s best signings. Only time will tell if McKinnon fits in the new-look offense, but its a pretty safe bet that he does.