49ers Rookie Isaac Guerendo Set for First NFL Start Following Backfield Injuries

With Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason sidelined, Guerendo steps into the lead running back role for San Francisco's matchup against the Bears.

Christian McCaffrey is out for the regular season with a PCL injury, and Jordan Mason is likely out as well due to a high ankle sprain, leaving the 49ers' backfield depleted.
Rookie Isaac Guerendo, a fourth-round pick from Louisville, will make his first NFL start after limited but promising appearances this season, including 246 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 42 carries.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in Guerendo's readiness, citing his improvement in practice and solid performances in games against Seattle and Dallas earlier this season.
Guerendo, who transitioned from wide receiver to running back in college, has a history of stepping up in limited opportunities, including a standout performance in the 2023 Holiday Bowl.
San Francisco has added depth to its backfield by promoting Patrick Taylor Jr. and claiming Israel Abanikanda off waivers, but Guerendo is expected to carry the bulk of the workload against Chicago.