Will this 49ers running back escape Kyle Shanahan's doghouse?

Isaac Guerendo flashed intriguing upside during his rookie season in 2024. The San Francisco 49ers running back totaled 420 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 84 carries, averaging an impressive 5.0 yards per attempt. His explosiveness stood out, highlighted by nine runs of 10-plus yards and six carries of 15-plus yards, according to Pro Football Focus.

Despite that promise, Guerendo found himself buried on the depth chart in 2025 behind Christian McCaffrey, Brian Robinson Jr., and even rookie Jordan James. He did not log a single offensive snap, even though he was active for 14 games. Instead, his role was limited to 173 snaps on special teams.

Ball security and durability concerns may have contributed to his offensive exile. According to Pro Football Reference, Guerendo fumbled the ball three times as a rookie.

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle recently examined Guerendo's outlook, suggesting the third-year back may still have a path forward in Kyle Shanahan's offense.

"Fumbling has been an issue. And so has staying healthy," Branch wrote. "But I think Guerendo's rare blend of size and speed means he'll be given a legitimate opportunity to compete for a meaningful role next season. In 2024, he averaged 5 yards a carry and had runs of 76 and 30 yards on 84 attempts while adding a 40-yard catch. Last season, when Guerendo was a sideline ornament, the 49ers had one run longer than 26 yards on 481 attempts."

That lack of explosive plays in 2025 suggests the 49ers missed Guerendo's speed element.

However, history isn't on Guerendo's side. The 49ers have not been patient with mid-round running backs in recent years.

"It's worth noting that history isn't in Guerendo's favor," Branch added. "The 49ers' other recent mid-round picks they used on running backs, Ty Davis-Price (2022) and Trey Sermon (2021), were cut before they finished two full seasons."

If the 49ers allow Robinson to depart in free agency, Guerendo could enter training camp with an opportunity to compete for a roster spot and potentially carve out an offensive role. Much will depend on San Francisco's own moves in free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft.

Still, the margin for error is slim. If Guerendo cannot improve his ball security and remain healthy, his time with the 49ers may be nearing its end.