Kyle Shanahan of the 49ers admits that Christian McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell did incorrect.

For the duration of his rookie season in 2021, the 49ers relied heavily on operating back Elijah Mitchell. Having said that, with the addition of Christian McCaffrey to the group, it is tough for Mitchell to even get on the field. In a current 30-23 win more than the Los Angeles Rams, Mitchell was 1 of 4 active and healthful players who did not see any action. In contrast, McCaffrey played each and every offensive snap for the 49ers. Coach Kyle Shanahan admitted the group created a error by not rotating the operating backs and expressed the have to have to give Mitchell a lot more playing time.

McCaffrey presently leads the NFL in rushing attempts and yards by means of two weeks, underscoring his significance to the group. In a 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 normally rests with the position coaches, with the concentrate mainly on playmaking. Having said that, he admitted he must have noticed Mitchell’s lack of playing time and pushed for his inclusion.

In spite of battling injuries throughout his rookie season, Mitchell proved to be a substantial contributor when he was on the field. In the final 5 games of the common season, he had a number of games with more than 20 rushing attempts and carried the ball 27 occasions in the 49ers’ initially playoff win more than the Dallas Cowboys. Having said that, Mitchell’s playing time decreased considerably soon after McCaffrey joined the group midway by means of the season.

Even though McCaffrey is undoubtedly the finest operating back in the league, Mitchell nonetheless deserves a part in the 49ers’ offense. Shanahan recognized the have to have to right the lack of rotation and assure Mitchell gets a lot more playing time in the future.