LaMike James

The speedy James saw his opportunities diminish to almost nothing in 2013 and the young back was let go by the 49ers in September of 2014.

Listed at 5-8, 194, James reportedly put on 10 pounds of muscle this offseason in order to improve his between-the-tackles running and pass-blocking skills. But there was never any doubt about his top-notch quickness, acceleration and long speed. For now, James and Kendall Hunter slot as backups to Frank Gore, but Gore's days of shouldering a monster workload are behind him, and Hunter is recovering from a torn Achilles' tendon. That means James should see more carries than a typical backup behind a huge and talented group of linemen. He'll also see some plays alongside Colin Kaepernick as a read-option threat, a formation that tends to open wide running lanes for back. And should Gore go down, James has a good deal of upside.

Over his three years at Oregon, James totaled 5,665 yards with 57 touchdowns. The Ducks offense was anything but pro style, so there will be a major adjustment, but it’s hard to argue with that production. He’ll add much needed speed to the 49ers offense, but James also fights for yards after contact. Still, at 5-8, 194, and viewed as a “luxury” pick in the second round with Frank Gore, Kendall Hunter and Brandon Jacobs also on the roster, James will be used mostly as a change-of-pace back as a rookie, likely becoming more of a presence on punt returns down the road as well.