San Francisco 49ers Designate Running Back to Return From Injured Reserve

The San Francisco 49ers' dominant run game will get another solid option just in time for the playoffs. The team officially activated running back Elijah Mitchell's 21-day practice window, clearing the way for his eventual return from Injured Reserve.

The #49ers have opened the Injured Reserve practice window for Elijah Mitchell. pic.twitter.com/LaFrfBQjtx
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) January 4, 2023

Mitchell has missed the last five games with a knee injury suffered in the 49ers' 13-0 Week 12 win over the New Orleans Saints. He has played only four total games this year due to various ailments, but he has been highly effective when available, totalling 226 rushing yards at an impressive 5.6 yards per carry.

Mitchell is a solid and effective back, but he'll have a lot of competition for carries in the 49ers backfield. Chrisitan McCaffrey, Jeff Wilson, and Jordan Mason have all proven themselves reliable options, and the 49ers have amassed an exceptional 823 rushing yards over the five games Mitchell has missed. To his credit, Mitchell has outperformed McCaffrey and Wilson on a per-carry basis (5.6 to 4.7 and 5.1). He should see meaningful touches when he's available.

Mitchell led the 49ers with 924 rushing yards last year after being drafted 194th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. He has a bright future with the 49ers, assuming he can stay healthy.