The San Francisco 49ers made a subtle yet significant roster move at running back on Wednesday, re-signing Sincere McCormick and releasing Jordan Mims. While the transaction may seem minor during the offseason roster shuffle, it sheds light on how Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and General Manager John Lynch view the depth chart as they prepare for training camp.
Jordan Mims' release is notable because he was recently added to the roster. The 26-year-old 5-foot-10, 205-pound player spent the 2025 season primarily on the Tennessee Titans' practice squad, with a brief appearance in one game. Mims was signed earlier this offseason in hopes he could develop into a power back to complement the 49ers' zone running scheme, but he never earned a meaningful audition. Mims did not register any carries during the 2025 season, and the coaching staff evidently found more value in bringing McCormick back.
Sincere McCormick returns to the 49ers after spending time on their practice squad during the 2025 preseason. Originally an undrafted free agent signed in 2022, McCormick bounced between the Raiders and 49ers before this latest signing. Though his name might not be familiar to casual observers, Shanahan has a keen eye for runners who fit his system's philosophy. McCormick, standing 5-foot-9 and weighing 215 pounds, exemplifies a one-cut-and-go runner who excels at pressing the hole, getting downhill, and gaining yards after contact. His skill set, while lacking blazing speed or pass-catching specialization, traditionally earns him extended consideration within San Francisco's organization.
The purpose of this roster change is competition depth rather than replacing a starter. Christian McCaffrey remains firmly entrenched as San Francisco's workhorse back after a stellar 2025 campaign, where he carried the ball 311 times for 1,202 yards and scored 10 rushing touchdowns while adding 102 receptions for 924 receiving yards. His ability to stay healthy for the full 17-game season was a rare feat, especially for a back with McCaffrey's injury history.
Isaac Guerendo, entering his third season, remains the primary change-of-pace back and occasional relief for McCaffrey. Despite not logging carries in the 2025 season, the coaching staff values Guerendo's burst and size (6-foot, 221 pounds) as an asset in their backfield rotation. Additionally, Jordan James, a 2025 fifth-round draft pick, saw three games as a rookie, while Patrick Taylor Jr. and fullback Kyle Juszczyk complete the running back group.
McCormick's opportunity to carve out a role will likely begin on special teams. The 49ers have consistently kept four running backs plus a fullback on their roster. If the team opts to carry a fifth pure running back into the season, that player must prove their worth on kickoff coverage and short-yardage situations. McCormick's familiarity with the system and his playing style give him an edge over Mims, who apparently did not demonstrate the versatility necessary to stick.
One key factor complicating McCormick's path is the presence of rookie Kaelon Black, the 49ers' third-round draft pick from Indiana in 2026. Black carries a greater assurance of opportunity given the investment the franchise made in selecting him. His multi-dimensional skill set--backed by receiving ability, pass protection, and competence in both inside zone runs and gap reads--aligns closely with Shanahan's demands for his backs. With Black on the roster, the 49ers face a practical ceiling of carrying no more than five running backs, meaning McCormick effectively competes with Patrick Taylor and potentially Jordan James for limited spots.
Timing also plays a crucial role in this decision. Mandatory minicamp starts in the coming week, training camp will open in July, and the 49ers must make their final 53-man roster cuts after the preseason. Using June to fine-tune the running back room allows the coaching staff to evaluate players early, giving McCormick a meaningful opportunity to prove his value.
Historically, Shanahan has demonstrated a knack for developing late-round or undrafted running backs into relevant contributors. For example, in 2019, Raheem Mostert rose from the bottom of the depth chart to become the team's leading rusher during their Super Bowl run. Similarly, in 2023, Elijah Mitchell and Jordan Mason shared the load behind McCaffrey. While McCormick is not yet at their level, he fits into that tradition of productive depth players unearthed by the 49ers.
From an organizational standpoint, this move is a savvy, low-risk adjustment. It likely will not drastically change the 49ers' 2026 season trajectory, but it reflects a disciplined approach to roster management. The team is clearly not inclined to carry players through the summer who are not progressing as hoped. By cutting Mims and bringing back McCormick, San Francisco retains a player familiar with the offense and capable of contributing both on special teams and as a depth piece.
McCormick's best-case scenario is making the full 53-man roster as the fourth running back, contributing occasionally on special teams and serving as insurance behind McCaffrey and Guerendo. His worst-case scenario is getting cut before the season opener and returning to the practice squad. The truth likely lies somewhere in the middle. With McCaffrey's health and Guerendo's development being key factors, McCormick stands as valuable depth.
Currently, the 49ers hold +1600 odds on FanDuel to win the Super Bowl. These odds reflect the team's core talent rather than the back end of the depth chart. That said, deep rosters often prevail late in the season when injuries and attrition take their toll. Small moves like this one reinforce the 49ers' culture of constant evaluation and optimization. Shanahan and Lynch are resolving depth chart questions in June, not waiting for the final days of camp to settle their roster. Sincere McCormick now gets the next chance to secure his place in this pursuit.
With the 2026 offseason progression underway, expect the competition at running back to intensify as training camp approaches. McCormick's return symbolizes both an opportunity and a challenge--a test of fit, adaptability, and perseverance in a demanding NFL environment.