Why A Healthy Elijah Mitchell Is Set To Be The #1 Back In SF

Elijah Mitchell - SIC Score 92

San Francisco 49ers running back Elijah Mitchell defied all the odds in his rookie season, and could be primed for another big year in the 49ers offense if the stars align. 

Mitchell has been present at 49ers OTAs, but currently not a full participant. The Louisiana-Lafayette alum has been working with trainers on the side-field following his off-season surgery. 

Mitchell underwent a clean-up procedure on his knee but will be ready for the 49ers training camp in July. Last year, Mitchell endured multiple ailments and will need to be his body to break down less to realize his full potential as the number one RB in San Francisco.

Injury History

• Dec. 5: Mitchell suffered a knee injury and a concussion, an MRI showed irritation and the RB missed 3 games due to the combined two injuries

• Jan. 2: Mitchell was limited in his practice after returning from the knee issue but played Week 17 and 18 rushing 42 times for 204 yards.

• Jan. 26: Mitchell did not practice due to the lingering knee issue but our panel of Pro Football Docs saw no concern and he was eventually taken off the injury report before the NFC Conference Championship game, finished playoffs with 169 rushing yards on 55 carries   

Fantasy Implications

Former 49er RB Raheem Mostert’s injury early in the season cleared the path for Mitchell to take over the 49ers backfield in 2021 and with him now in Miami, the #1 job is his to lose. 

Entering his 2nd season with an excellent Sic Score of 92, Mitchell could be primed for another excellent season for the 49ers. The team added a big body bruiser in the 3rd round of the draft and will likely incorporate numerous RBs in the game plan but this should not jeopardize his value as there is enough rushing opportunities in SF to go around.