Who Should I Start? Christian McCaffrey or Kyren Williams

Saturday, June 29, 1:07 PM

No NFL running back played a higher percentage of his team's offensive snaps last year than San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey. Elijah Mitchell, their top backup, missed six games in another injury-riddled season, and McCaffrey was simply too good to take off the field. CMC led the league with 1,459 rushing yards -- 292 more than the next best RB. His 21 TDs tied for the league lead and he also added 564 receiving yards, which ranked fourth on the 49ers. His 339 total touches were the second-most of his career. McCaffrey's efforts earned him Offensive Player of the Year honors and a two-year extension. The Niners would love a repeat performance in 2024, but perhaps with less wear and tear. A healthy Mitchell would help them accomplish that. "We have to protect Christian from himself. He doesn't like to ever come out no matter what the situation is and I do think that's something we could protect him with more," head coach Kyle Shanahan said.

Thursday, July 25, 6:20 PM

Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams appears to be the clear No. 1 back heading into camp, according to Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports. Williams is coming off a breakout season where he rushed for nearly 1,200 yards with 12 touchdowns in 12 games with the Rams. On paper, Williams should be the workhorse back but there could be some concern because he hasn't played a full season in the league yet. Also, the Rams drafted running back Blake Corum who should be in the mix for touches right away. Despite that, Williams should get the bulk of the carries early in the season. Corum could see an increased workload if Williams struggles, but it's say to assume Williams is going to be leaned on as the No. 1 back to open the season.