The San Francisco 49ers have selected Jordan James as a fifth-round running back in the 2025 NFL Draft, bringing in a player praised for his balance, vision, and pass protection skills. James is not the fastest but is considered a strong fit for Kyle Shanahan's offensive scheme, where running backs excel through their ability to read defenses and execute plays efficiently.

James’s impressive scouting report highlights his natural receiving abilities out of the backfield, comparing him to legends like Frank Gore and emerging talents such as Kyren Williams. His well-built frame and solid footwork enable him to navigate tight spaces and maintain forward momentum. Analysts believe he could become a valuable asset for the 49ers, especially as a backup to Christian McCaffrey.