How Could This 32-Year-Old Veteran RB Help the 49ers Backfield In 2025?
Earlier this morning, the 49ers signed former Las Vegas Raiders running back Ameer Abdullah. San Francisco worked out several other notable veteran running backs like Jeff Wilson Jr. and D’Ernest Johnson over the last few days. However, it appears Abdullah shone the most out of the bunch. He will have an opportunity to make the 53-man roster by showing his potential value to their offense during the preseason. Abdullah has provided great production in his limited snaps with the Raiders the last few seasons and should look to do the same as a viable depth option in San Francisco.
Last season was definitely the most productive he’s been since the start of his NFL career with the Detroit Lions. In 2024, Abdullah provided the Raiders with not only consistent rushing ability but also value out of the backfield, catching 40 passes for 261 yards and three scores. Abdullah would accumulate 572 scrimmage yards, including a career day against the Saints, where he recorded his first 100-yard rushing game of his career. The 2024 season marked his third-highest yardage season of his decade-long career and his highest yardage mark since 2017. Abdullah likely won’t become used in the same capacity on the 49ers offense as their running back depth has remained consistently great since head coach Kyle Shanahan arrived in 2017. However, depth in the backfield will always be valued, especially with the injuries the 49ers’ backfield has sustained in the past year.
His impact at the running back position could be in question, joining a backfield that includes Christian McCaffrey, Isaac Guerendo, Patrick Taylor Jr., and fifth-round rookie Jordan James. However, if Abdullah can play his way onto the 53-man roster, he has the ability to make an impact anywhere the team needs him. Even though the 49ers seem to want to develop seventh-round rookie receiver Junior Bergen as their new return specialist, Abdullah has versatility and experience to slide into the return role as well. San Francisco has made multiple minor free agent signings throughout training camp to prepare for preseason, and it is unlikely any will make the final roster. However, Abdullah’s recent productivity in Vegas indicates he could potentially be effective in the small sample size he would receive if given the opportunity.
