James (coach's decision) is officially inactive for Thursday's game against the Rams, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.
The 2025 fifth-rounder will not suit up in Week 1, leaving Christian McCaffrey and rookie third-rounder Kaelon Black as the only healthy running backs active for the 49ers on Thursday. James' role moving forward may depend on how effective Black is to start the season.
James (ribs) rushed eight times for 35 yards and brought in one of two targets for 20 yards in the 49ers' 18-12 preseason win over the Raiders on Thursday.
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James (ribs) returned to practice Saturday, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
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Above the line the plan was to throw; below it, to run.
James (ribs) will not play in Thursday's preseason opener against the Titans, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
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James fractured a rib during Tuesday's practice, Vic Tafur of The Athletic reports.
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James appears to be operating as the No. 2 running back behind Christian McCaffrey to begin training camp, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
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James appears to be the most likely option to serve as Christian McCaffrey's backup in 2026, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com.
James is battling for the second spot on the depth chart in a backfield that also includes rookie third-round pick Kaelon Black, as well as Isaac Guerendo, Patrick Taylor and Sincere McCormick behind McCaffrey. The 49ers selected James in Round 5 of the 2025 NFL Draft, but he was limited to just three regular-season appearances in his rookie campaign. James could be headed for a larger role in his second NFL season.
The RBs priced immediately above and below him.