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| Christian McCaffrey. Photo Credit: Kyle Terada/USA Today Sports. |
Today, I open the case of file of Christian McCaffrey, a versatile running back who is explosive and dangerous as a runner and receiver. He's the type of player I would deem an ultimate weapon. Before I continue, visit rdxsports.com and become a part of Team RDX. Get the latest on martial arts and fitness gear at a 10% discount.
Team: San Francisco 49ers
Position: Running Back
HT: 5-11 WT: 209
Credentials:
2x All-Pro
2x Pro Bowl
AP College Football Player of the Year (2015)
Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (2015)
Strengths:
-Every down back
-Versatile, can be used as an extra wide receiver
-Explosive runner
-Runs well between the tackles for his size
-Patient, doesn't hesitate or tip toe when going through the hole
Weaknesses:
-Doesn't have the ideal size for the position
-Injury prone
-Adequate in pass protection
Final Analysis:
I'm not surprised by the way Christian's career has turned out, so far. From his days at Stanford to currently the San Francisco 49ers, Christian has always been a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
He's a well-rounded back who is dangerous as a runner and receiver. As a receiver, he's not just a back out of the backfield type, he can actually line up as a wide out and makes plays. He's like having an extra receiver on the field, so you can keep him in on all three downs. I'll admit, prior to coming into the league, I had my questions as to whether or not he could be a three-down back from a physical standpoint due to his lack of size, but he has proven he can stay in on all three downs. On a side note, there have been undersized backs who played on all three downs (Ex: Barry Sanders, Warrick Dunn), but they're far and few between.
However, I wonder if his size was part of the reason he has been plagued with injuries the last few seasons. Now, if any running back, regardless of their size takes too many (i.e., unnecessary) hits, they're going to have a short career, but this goes double for a smaller back.
Another factor could have be overusage. There was a season where he had 1,000 yards rushing and receiving (2019) which is a rare individual achievement, but that's a lot of wear and tear on a player. He's not going to overwhelm anyone in pass protection, but he blocis well enough to give his quarterback extra time.
Christian is the type of back that I consider ideal from a skillset standpoint--the combination of him as a runner and receiver, but his versatility as a receiver stands out to me, in particular. These types of running backs are rare. Combined with his speed, explosiveness, and deceptive strength, it makes him an ultimate weapon and a matchup nightmare for any defense. If he can stay healthy, I not only see him adding to his list of accomplishments, but also an induction in the Hall of Fame when it's all said and done.
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