Sam Monson pumped the brakes on Jordan James’ fantasy hype, warning that undrafted free agent Corey Kiner could steal the No. 2 job behind Christian McCaffrey. Monson acknowledged James’ zone-running fit but pointed out that Kyle Shanahan’s history (Raheem Mostert 2016, Elijah Mitchell 2021, Jordan Mason 2022) shows UDFAs and seventh-rounders routinely leapfrog higher-drafted backs. He noted Kiner’s tape is "excellent" even if the timed speed was disappointing, and added that San Francisco’s coaching staff has prioritized vision and decisiveness over raw testing numbers in past depth-chart battles. Because of that track record, Monson advised fading James at his current dynasty and best-ball prices and instead grabbing Kiner for free as a speculative stash.

Steve Palazzolo said Jordan James is a perfect stylistic match for Kyle Shanahan’s outside-zone scheme and could see work right away. Palazzolo called James “a super smooth zone runner” whose vision and one-cut explosiveness fit exactly what the 49ers ask of their backs. With Jordan Mason reportedly out of the picture, the rookie’s path to No. 2 duties behind Christian McCaffrey is wide-open. Drafted in the fifth round, James brings Day-3 cost but legitimate opportunity in a backfield that routinely elevates late-round runners (see Elijah Mitchell). In deep season-long or dynasty leagues, Palazzolo recommended stashing James now before camp buzz drives up the price.

Tyler Knaeble urged drafters to accumulate Jordan James shares while the rookie is still available in Rounds 18-20. Knaeble expects the typical "Kyle Shanahan glowing quote" to surface in July, which would shoot James into Round 16 territory much like Elijah Mitchell’s meteoric rise in 2021. Behind Christian McCaffrey and fellow rookie Isaac Guerendo, the 49ers depth chart is wide open; Knaeble projects James to handle preseason ‘A’ team snaps thanks to his one-cut skill set that mirrors past Shanahan success stories. Because San Francisco backs annually finish top-five in expected points added per rush, any path to 8-12 touches makes James a spike-week dart. Knaeble’s plan: stay at or above 12 percent exposure now so you’re not chasing the steam once coach-speak hits.