San Francisco 49ers: What to watch for at each position in training camp

Running Back

Who’s Involved: Carlos Hyde, Tim Hightower, Joe Williams, Matt Breida, Kapri Bibbs, Raheem Mostert, Kyle Juszczyk (FB), Tyler McCloskey (FB)

What to watch for

Are the rumors of Carlos Hyde’s demise exaggerated? Noise around rookie Joe Williams taking the reins in the backfield isn’t going away and NFL Media’s Gregg Rosenthal, per Rotoworld, has even suggested Hyde could be cut.

UDFA Matt Breida has attracted attention with his speed and pass-catching ability and, with Williams and Breida both the recipients of significant hype, it will be interesting to see what kind of role Tim Hightower carves out after an impressive 2016 with the New Orleans Saints.

How it should shake out

Expect to learn that rumors of Hyde’s demise were indeed greatly exaggerated. He is coming off his best season in the NFL and it is difficult to believe that Kyle Shanahan cannot make use of a player who isn’t as elusive as Devonta Freeman, but is blessed with a great blend of power and agility.

Hyde and Hightower should both make the roster, but Williams and Breida offer enough to make it too and should keep both of their more experienced colleagues on a short leash.

Kyle Juszczyk will be the fullback and figures to be an integral part of the offense.