San Francisco,Fr – April 18, 2025
In a blockbuster move at the 2025 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers acquired a star running back from the New York Jets, per sources, sending a third-round pick to secure the deal. The trade, finalized Thursday in Green Bay, reunites the 24-year-old with Brock Purdy, his former Iowa State teammate, aiming to revitalize a 49ers offense that slumped to 21st in scoring (20.7 points per game) in 2024.
Purdy, 25, remains the 49ers’ offensive cornerstone, with a 23-13 regular-season record and a Super Bowl LVIII appearance. His 2024 campaign—3,864 yards, 20 touchdowns, 12 interceptions—suffered from Deebo Samuel’s trade and an aging offensive line. Kyle Shanahan’s system, reliant on Christian McCaffrey’s 1,668 total yards, needs a complementary weapon to ease the load on the 29-year-old star.
The new running back, a 6-foot-1, 220-pound dynamo, posted 876 rushing yards, 483 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns in 2024. His dual-threat ability mirrors McCaffrey’s, offering Shanahan a versatile piece for jet sweeps, screens, and backfield passes. His chemistry with Purdy from their Iowa State days could accelerate integration into San Francisco’s complex playbook.
The trade addresses a glaring need. McCaffrey’s injury history and age raise concerns, while backup Isaac Guerendo lacks proven experience. With Samuel gone, the 49ers’ receiving corps—Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall—needs backfield support. The rookie’s four-year, $5 million contract fits the 49ers’ $22 million cap, preserving space for Purdy’s $50-60 million extension.
For the Jets, the deal aligns with their strategy. With young backs Isaiah Davis and Braelon Allen emerging, trading their star maximizes value before his rookie deal expires. The third-round pick bolsters their draft capital, targeting needs like wide receiver to complement Garrett Wilson, per draft analysts.
Risks persist for San Francisco. The 49ers’ defense, 20th in points allowed (24.3 per game) after losing Javon Hargrave and Dre Greenlaw, remains unaddressed. Trading a third-rounder limits options to replace Trent Williams, 36. If the running back fails to mesh, Shanahan’s gamble could stall Purdy’s progress.
Financially, the move is shrewd. The low-cost contract avoids the cap strain of a veteran like Jalen Ramsey, allowing John Lynch to leverage 10 remaining picks, including No. 11, for a defender like Mason Graham. The trade balances immediate offensive spark with long-term flexibility.
This acquisition signals Shanahan’s faith in Purdy and a dynamic backfield. Paired with McCaffrey, the star running back could restore San Francisco’s NFC West dominance, but only if Lynch addresses defensive woes. As 2025 looms, the 49ers’ bold reunion bet sets the stage for a playoff push.
