Kyle Shanahan Critiques 49ers’ Draft Strategy: The Skattebo Miss
The San Francisco 49ers’ decision not to draft Cam Skattebo is raising eyebrows, especially given the team’s current struggles in the running game.
A Surprising Turn of Events
In the lead-up to the NFL Draft, it seemed almost a foregone conclusion that Skattebo would land with the 49ers. The running back, known for his powerful running style and receiving ability, was viewed as an ideal complement to star Christian McCaffrey. However, the 49ers opted to go in a different direction during the third round, selecting linebacker Nick Martin and nickelback Upton Stout instead, while Skattebo was chosen by the New York Giants in the fourth round.
Now, as the 49ers grapple with the league’s least effective running game—averaging a meager 3.4 yards per carry—the absence of Skattebo is felt more than ever. Despite suffering a significant ankle injury that will sideline him for the rest of the season, Skattebo was making waves this year with 607 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns in just eight games. His potential to contribute meaningfully to the 49ers is undeniable.
Shanahan’s Frustration on Display
When asked about the team’s decision to bypass Skattebo in the draft, head coach Kyle Shanahan did not mince words.
“Yes, we did and we loved him. He was awesome,” Shanahan stated without hesitation, hinting at the frustration he feels regarding the front office’s choices. This admission raises questions about the internal dynamics between Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, especially when considering Shanahan’s mixed history with drafting running backs in the early rounds. Previous selections, such as Isaac Guerendo, Ty Davis-Price, Trey Sermon, and Joe Williams, have not yielded the desired results, which might have influenced the decision to pursue defensive talent instead.
Defensive Focus at a Cost
With the 49ers’ defense ranking poorly last season, it was logical for the team to prioritize defensive players in the draft. However, this strategy has come at a notable cost. Through the first half of the season, neither Martin nor fifth-round pick Jordan James has made a significant impact, with Martin not even taking a snap on defense and James remaining inactive. This lack of contribution raises the question of whether Shanahan’s push for Skattebo could have shifted the team’s fortunes.
The 49ers did make a move to bolster their backfield by trading for Brian Robinson Jr., but the coach has only given him 36 carries so far. This limited usage suggests a lack of confidence in the current running back depth.
Playoff Implications
As the season progresses, the ramifications of passing on Skattebo could prove costly. With playoff berths on the line and a struggling ground game, the 49ers find themselves at a crucial juncture. The team’s inability to establish a reliable run game, particularly given McCaffrey’s injury history and advancing age, underscores the importance of having a robust backup plan.
The decision to overlook Skattebo stands out as one of the more puzzling choices the 49ers have made this year. With the stakes rising, the impact of this draft miss could resonate through the remainder of the season.
