Isaac Guerendo emerged as a notable surprise during the 2024 NFL season, stepping up for the San Francisco 49ers when Christian McCaffrey was sidelined after playing only four games due to injuries. When Jordan Mason, the primary backup, also missed time, Kyle Shanahan turned to Guerendo, who seized the opportunity.
The rookie running back appeared in all 16 games, carrying the ball 84 times for 420 yards and scoring four touchdowns. With Mason now a member of the Minnesota Vikings and ongoing questions surrounding McCaffrey’s health, Guerendo appears positioned for a significant role in 2025.
Analyzing Isaac Guerendo’s Fantasy Potential for the 2025 NFL Season
Selected 129th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Guerendo was originally viewed as the third or fourth option in the 49ers’ backfield. However, McCaffrey’s injuries gave him unexpected playing time, which he capitalized on effectively. At Louisville, Guerendo developed skills that translated well to his rookie campaign, earning him a crucial place on the 49ers roster.
Throughout the season, he ranked just behind Jordan Mason in carries and rushing yards, finishing with 84 attempts to Mason’s 153 and accumulating 420 yards. His four rushing touchdowns were second on the team only to quarterback Brock Purdy, who had five. In Sportskeeda’s fantasy football rankings, Guerendo ended the year as the 41st-best running back and the 113th overall player, notably ahead of seasoned players like Raheem Mostert and Rachaad White.
Evaluating Guerendo’s Value as a Fantasy Football Asset
As future RB2 options on their teams, Guerendo holds a competitive edge over veterans Mostert and White, thanks largely to his ascending role in San Francisco’s offense. Projections for Guerendo’s 2025 season estimate 164.3 fantasy points, supported by 716.8 rushing yards and nearly seven rushing touchdowns. Additionally, his receiving game could contribute about 25.67 catches for 259.4 yards, adding valuable versatility for fantasy managers.
While Christian McCaffrey’s uncertain health status and advancing age may pave the way for increased opportunities, there remains inherent risk in relying on Guerendo as a primary fantasy pick. Nonetheless, his potential breakout keeps optimism high among fantasy players.
Advice on Draft Timing for Isaac Guerendo in Fantasy Football Leagues
Current data from Fantasy Pros lists Guerendo’s average draft position (ADP) at 47.5, ranking him as the 52nd running back and a tier-six player overall. Fantasy managers eyeing his upside should consider selecting him in the ninth or tenth round to maximize value while managing risk.
If Guerendo receives a larger workload than McCaffrey, especially during key weeks, this pick could yield major returns. Even if his role remains limited, he offers dependable flexibility as a flex option or emergency running back during the season’s more challenging periods.