Rookie running back Carlos Hyde was arguably the best running back in this year’s past NFL Draft. The rookie out of The Ohio State University finished his senior season with 1,521 rushing yards to go along with 15 touchdowns on the ground. When the San Francisco 49ers traded up in the second round to land the All-Big Ten running back it seemed like Hyde would be in fierce competition to land some adequate carries. With Frank Gore being the No.1 it was clear that he would receive the brunt of the work, but after Gore it was a crap shoot.
The past few seasons running backs Kendall Hunter and LaMichael James have helped shoulder the load, but this preseason both backs suffered injuries. With Hunter out for the season, and James out for an extensive period — it gives Hyde a chance to seize the No.2 role as the backup to Gore.
It was suspected that Hyde would have to fend of Marcus Lattimore as well, but he is still nursing his knee injury that ended his college football career.
The San Francisco 49ers are one of few teams that rely on a power running game, with the said Hyde will have ample opportunity to make an impact. During off-season workouts Hyde has shown the ability to catch out of the backfield as well as showing nifty footwork for someone who weighs in at 235 lbs. Hyde will have to learn what it takes to be a pass-blocker in the NFL, but that will happen with experience.
The 49ers knew that they could have possibly received the steal of the 2014 NFL Draft, and with the 49ers backfield empty Hyde will have a chance to showcase his talents. Gore is in a current bout with father time, and the better Hyde plays it gives Gore more of a fighting chance. Having Hyde spell Gore when he is tired or banged up can make life easier on the 49ers and Gore. Having depth is what championship caliber teams have, and the 49ers have that. It was a known fact that Hyde would contribute as a rookie, but with the opportunity given to him he can be a key cog in a run to the Super Bowl
