NFL Power Rankings 2020: Ranking every starting running back

24. Raheem Mostert, San Francisco 49ers

Mostert played his college ball at Purdue, where he split time between playing running back and wide receiver. While he served as the team’s primary kick returner for the majority of his four collegiate seasons, Mostert didn’t play a significant role on the offense until his senior season, when he rushed for 529 yards on 93 attempts.

The Purdue product went undrafted in 2015. That year, he appeared in games for the Browns, Dolphins, and Ravens. In 2016, Mostert spent some time on New York’s practice squad before the Jets cut him. He then appeared in two games for the Bears before Chicago sent him packing as well. Luckily, Mostert landed with the 49ers next, and he’s been with the franchise ever since.

However, Mostert still faced an uphill battle in the league. The running back landed on injured reserve in both 2017 and 2018. The 49ers showed faith in Mostert, giving him a one-year deal for 2018 and a three-year $8.7 million contract last offseason. Finally, Mostert got his shot to shine in 2019.

As the 49ers battled to a 13-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance, Mostert ran for 772 yards and eight touchdowns on only 137 carries (5.6 yards per attempt). He also played a role in the passing game and finished the season with 952 yards from scrimmage and ten total touchdowns.

However, Mostert’s most impressive performance came in the NFC Championship game. Against Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers, Mostert ran for 220 yards and four touchdowns while averaging roughly 7.6 yards per attempt. Even with Tevin Coleman and Jerick McKinnon on the roster, Mostert should win the starting job.