CBS Sports’ Emory Hunt, speaking on CBS Sports HQ, highlighted Ford’s explosiveness and potential in an outside-zone scheme. He noted that in the right system, Ford can create big plays off the edge with even a sliver of space, giving San Francisco a dynamic complement to McCaffrey.
Hunt argued that pairing a fast, bursty back like Ford with McCaffrey would keep defenses guessing and help the offense stay fresh. He emphasized that Ford’s speed and acceleration could stretch defenses and make it harder for opponents to chase down the 49ers’ backfield playmakers.
The analyst also suggested it would be preferable to add a back with similar characteristics to McCaffrey rather than re-signing a power runner. He pointed to Brian Robinson Jr. as an example of a different profile, noting Ford’s proven explosiveness would align better with San Francisco’s current approach.
Beyond the backfield, there’s also chatter about strengthening San Francisco’s receiving corps. The San Francisco Standard’s David Lombardi discussed Romeo Doubs as a realistic mid-tier target who could fit the team’s needs at a more affordable price point than top-end options.
Lombardi estimated Doubs’ market could land in the $12–$15 million-per-year range, a potentially attractive alternative if the 49ers can’t bring back Jauan Jennings, who could cost closer to $20 million. Doubs could offer the speed and separation the 49ers have sought to add to their wide receiving group.
