A loot went wrong for the San Francisco 49ers last season. Depending on who you ask, the reason for it is multi-faceted. On one hand, a Super Bowl hangover is certainly warranted after the team lost in overtime to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII. Injuries also played a part as well with stars like Christian McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk missing most of the year.

On the other, the roster is older than normal, and the 49ers age started to show. If the team wants to get younger heading into the 2025 season, they’ll need to have a massive draft. NFL Analysis writer Ian Van Roy believes the 49ers should consider adding another dynamic offensive weapon in the 2025 Draft to support quarterback Brock Purdy long-term.

Particularly running back Ashton Jeanty. “The scheme and history show that Purdy is most effective with a superstar running back,” Van Roy wrote. “McCaffrey is turning 29 this year and already has several season-ending injuries in his history. Not only would his addition boost Purdy, but it also could solve the running back problem for the 49ers for another decade.” Drafting Jeanty with McCaffrey still on the roster is a massive gamble for the 49ers at this point. No one will deny that.

But as the team gets younger, they need more stars in key positions in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Running back, unlike with most teams, is a spot that must be addressed. Jeanty would add a powerful dynamic to San Fran’s offense. If the 49ers can trade up for him that is.