Just 24 hours after being released by the New York Jets, running back Israel Abanikanda has found a new NFL home. According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, the San Francisco 49ers claimed the former Pitt standout off waivers.
To make room on their 53-man roster, the 49ers placed star running back Christian McCaffrey on injured reserve. This move sidelines McCaffrey for at least four weeks, though ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reports the team is awaiting additional tests to determine if his absence might extend through the rest of the season.
Abanikanda Gets a Golden Opportunity With the 49ers
The 49ers have been plagued by injuries this season. Week 13 saw both their starting running back and primary backup go down.
McCaffrey suffered a PCL injury that is expected to keep him out for over six weeks, with only five weeks remaining in the 2024 regular season. Additionally, veteran backup Jordan Mason was placed on injured reserve with a high ankle sprain, ruling him out for at least four games.
McCaffrey’s 2024 campaign was severely limited, as he appeared in just four games due to recurring injuries. Meanwhile, Mason took on the starting role and delivered solid performances, rushing 153 times for 789 yards in 12 games, averaging 5.2 yards per carry.
With their top two running backs sidelined, the 49ers are left searching for answers, and Abanikanda is now part of the equation.
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A Fresh Start for Abanikanda
Abanikanda, 22, has yet to appear in a game this season. He spent most weeks as an inactive, buried on the Jets’ depth chart. After falling out of favor with the coaching staff, he struggled to find opportunities. As a rookie, Abanikanda recorded just 22 carries for 70 yards without scoring a touchdown.
This move to the 49ers offers a pivotal moment in his young career.
Now or Never in the NFL
Drafted in the fifth round, Abanikanda has struggled to make an impact at the professional level. However, joining the 49ers gives him a chance to shine in an offense known for its success with running backs.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan, and the Shanahan coaching tree in general, is renowned for maximizing production from the running back position. Since 2017, Shanahan has had nine different players post 100+ yard rushing games, tied for the most in the league.
“Former Jets RB Izzy Abanikanda claimed on waivers by the 49ers, which means there’s a 100-yard rushing game in his near future,” ESPN’s Rich Cimini wrote on social media.
While his NFL output has been underwhelming so far, Abanikanda’s college numbers demonstrate his potential. Over three seasons at Pitt, he rushed for 2,177 yards and 28 touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry.
If he can’t capitalize on this opportunity with one of the league’s top offensive minds, it will raise serious questions about his future in the NFL.
