Should I Start Jordan James?

Saturday, June 13, 10:41 AM

A fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, San Francisco 49ers running back Jordan James appeared in just three games and did not record a single carry as a rookie last season. However, James reportedly has a strong chance to enter 2026 as the 49ers' primary backup behind superstar running back Christian McCaffrey. Following the offseason departure of former 49ers back Brian Robinson Jr., James' primary competition for the RB2 role appears to be rookie third-rounder Kaelon Black and 2024 fourth-rounder Isaac Guerendo. While James is not guaranteed to win the job, he may have the well-rounded skill set of the group and has drawn praise from 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan this offseason. As long as McCaffrey stays healthy, James' path to fantasy-relevant playing time will remain blocked. Still, McCaffrey has a long injury track record and is entering his age-30 season after logging an NFL-leading 413 touches in 2025. Dynasty managers should prioritize buying low on James ahead of his potential emergence as a high-end handcuff running back.