Isaac Guerendo (foot injury) surprises with his return for tonight’s Niners vs. Rams game – Can he shine?

Isaac Guerendo Set to Play Key Role for 49ers Despite Foot Injury

The San Francisco 49ers’ backfield has been plagued by injuries all season, but there’s a silver lining for the team as Isaac Guerendo is officially active for the pivotal Thursday Night Football game against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite dealing with a foot injury sustained just days ago, Guerendo is ready to step up and contribute to his team’s playoff hopes.

Guerendo’s injury occurred during the 49ers’ dominant 38-13 victory over the Chicago Bears on Sunday, where he was one of the standout performers. After spraining his foot late in the game, he was initially listed as a non-participant in Monday’s practice and was limited during Tuesday’s walkthrough. However, after a day of limited activity, Guerendo received a questionable designation on Wednesday, before being cleared for action ahead of Thursday’s game.

This is crucial for the 49ers, as injuries have decimated their backfield throughout the season. The loss of star running back Christian McCaffrey earlier in the season due to Achilles and calf issues only compounded the problem. Additionally, Elijah Mitchell, McCaffrey’s backup, was placed on season-ending injured reserve after suffering a hamstring injury. With McCaffrey sidelined, Jordan Mason initially stepped in, but shoulder problems limited his availability, leaving the 49ers in a constant state of flux at the position.

It was during Mason’s absences that Guerendo had his chance to shine. Over two games in which he filled in as the primary back, Guerendo amassed 24 carries for 184 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability. Although he receded into the background once McCaffrey returned to the lineup in Week 10, Guerendo’s moment came again after McCaffrey was sidelined once more in Week 13 with a PCL injury suffered against the Buffalo Bills. Adding to the woes, Mason was also placed on injured reserve with a high ankle sprain, further depleting the team’s depth.

Despite these setbacks, Guerendo has proven himself to be a capable and versatile back. In Sunday’s win over the Bears, the rookie speedster delivered an impressive 78 rushing yards, alongside 50 receiving yards and two touchdowns, before being forced to exit due to his foot injury. His performance gave 49ers fans hope that the team can continue to compete, even with a depleted backfield.

With just four games remaining and the 49ers sitting at a precarious 6-7 record, Guerendo’s availability could prove pivotal. Although the team’s chances of making the playoffs are slim—standing at just a 7% probability—the 49ers are not ready to give up hope. A victory over their division rivals, the Los Angeles Rams, on Thursday night could go a long way in keeping those playoff dreams alive.

As Guerendo suits up for this high-stakes matchup, the 49ers’ coaching staff, led by Kyle Shanahan, will be counting on their newest lead back to rise to the occasion. Guerendo’s health and performance could change the narrative for a team desperately in need of a turnaround as they push towards a playoff berth.