Who will be Christian McCaffrey's backup? Exploring 49ers' options after Elijah Mitchell placed on season-ending IR

Christian McCaffrey is expected to play another critical role for the San Francisco 49ers in the 2024 season. The running back helped the 49ers to the Super Bowl last season, but they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs at the final hurdle.

Nonetheless, fans have been curious to learn more about San Francisco's running back depth chart after Elijah Mitchell's season-ending hamstring injury. Mitchell, initially considered McCaffrey's backup, was placed on the 49ers' IR list on Tuesday, adding to the team's woes.

A look at Christian McCaffrey's backups for 2024 NFL season

San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey (Source: Getty)

As things stand, Jordan Mason is expected to serve as Christian McCaffrey's backup for the 2024 NFL season. Meanwhile, Isaac Guerendo will be moved up as the 49ers' third-choice running back.

Mason went undrafted in 2022 but was signed by the 49ers later. He has made 33 appearances for the team in the past two years and rushed for 464 yards with four touchdowns.

Last season, Mason appeared in all 17 regular season games. He had 40 carries for 206 yards and three touchdowns as the 49ers finished at the top of the NFC.

San Francisco will likely call upon Mason's services for the 2024 season following Elijah Mitchell's injury.

Last season, Mitchell rushed for 281 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games. He was to enter the fourth and final year of his rookie contract with San Francisco in 2024.

The 49ers also have Isaac Guerendo in their ranks. The team drafted the RB in the fourth round this year.

Guerendo played three seasons at Wisconsin before transferring to Louisville for the 2023 season. He racked up 1,392 rushing yards on 231 carries and scored 17 touchdowns in college football.

The 49ers will begin their 2024 regular season against the New York Jets at Levi's Stadium on Sept. 9.