The San Francisco 49ers are treating rookie second-round pick Carlos Hyde like he's going to play a significant role in the offense this season. The young running back has received less playing time than most of the backs on the roster, outside of Frank Gore, and he's played primarily in the beginning of preseason games.
Carlos Hyde playing well, being treated like Frank Gore backup; could have fantasy value
Carlos Hyde is being treated like he’ll be backing up Frank Gore this season. We break down the fantasy implications.
Rob Carr
In other words, he's being treated like the primary backup to Gore. His only competition would be LaMichael James given that Kendall Hunter is out for the season. James has been dealing with an elbow injury but returned to action for Sunday's preseason game against the San Diego Chargers. James carried the ball seven times for just 9 yards, and caught one pass for 7 yards.
Hyde, on the other hand, played early on in the game and was out of it before James. He carried the ball six times for 38 yards.
Fantasy Impact: The 49ers generally are not a team to give too much playing time to rookies, but in the case of running backs, it’s probably an easier decision to make. One of these years, the “Gore can’t keep taking all the carries” story will actually be true, and smart money is on Hyde being the guy to take advantage if that happens this year. James’ spot on the roster is more secure than ever with Hunter’s injury, but Hyde looks like the guy to handcuff to Gore at this point.
