The San Francisco 49ers have to make a move at running back. The team currently has five capable running backs and will likely only carry three heading into the season. That leaves two as the odd man out and the team can opt to either release them or seek a trade. With OTAs and training camps starting up, NFL teams will get a better feel for where they stand at each position and will call the 49ers to see which of the five running backs are available for deals.
Frank Gore is the undisputed starter. There is no denying that. The 49ers drafted Carlos Hyde to be his replacement when Gore eventually runs out of gas. Marcus Lattimore no longer has a question mark surrounding him. After suffering a gruesome leg injury his final year at South Carolina, the 2013 fourth-round pick stepped onto the field at rookie minicamp, his first time practicing since getting drafted. San Francisco continues to endorse Lattimore's future with the team and are showing no signs of letting him go. That leaves LaMichael James and Kendal Hunter with James being the best trade piece.
James wants a trade. The running back came to the team after a very success career at Oregon that included a Heisman nomination. He has barely been used over the last two seasons and when given the chance he could be a dominating back for any team. So who takes him?
According to Chris Wesseling of NFL.com, James could be sent to either the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles or Denver Broncos during OTAs or training camp. The issue in a deal could be the asking price. Wesseling reports that right now the 49ers want a mid-to-late-round draft pick for a back that has barely been used.
The Cowboys could easily find a place for James. DeMarco Murray will be the starter, but there are doubts surrounding his health and whether or not he can carry an offense on his back. They recently added Ryan Williams to the roster who will be an excellent complement to Murray. However, they are both down-field running backs where as James can be used as a receiving back or return man. The team already looks poised to dump Joseph Randle and possibly Lance Dunbar is Williams looks good in camp. That would open a door for James.
The Eagles are a favorite for James simply because of head coach Chip Kelly, not because there is a need for him. Philadelphia already has Darren Sproles, but they did lose DeSean Jackson and James could help fill the void. The Broncos will be a darkhorse for James. The team is hoping Montee Ball can be an every-down back while Ronnie Hillman steps up as the second option. If Hillman struggles in camp, James could be the best option.
