After just one season, the Trey Sermon era in San Francisco is already over.
Despite the 49ers trading up to select the Ohio State product in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the team saw enough of him in just one season in their backfield to make a decision to release him on Wednesday afternoon.
The move paves the way for undrafted rookie Jordan Mason to play a role on this year’s 49ers squad, but it’ll still likely be a two-headed approach in the Niners backfield with Elijah Mitchell and Jeff Wilson Jr.
Check out where our experts have the 49ers running backs ranked for fantasy football drafts.
Elijah Mitchell & Jeff Wilson Jr. Fantasy Football Ranking
Per Stokastic’s fantasy football cheat sheet, Mitchell is far-and-away the most dependable 49ers running back at No. 26 of all running backs on our initial list. Wilson should be slated to take on a predominant backup role and is listed at No. 50.
Even though Mitchell has been out of 49ers practice since August 12 with a hamstring issue, head coach Kyle Shanahan is optimistic his starting running back will be ready to go for their Week 1 matchup against the Chicago Bears.
“Yea, he is on schedule. We won’t get him this week, but things are looking to have him back for Week 1,” said Shanahan via SI.
In 2021 ( his rookie season), Mitchell had his season cut short due to injury, but had established himself as the starter in a crowded 49ers backfield.
He ran for 963 yards and five touchdowns in his limited action.
