San Francisco 49ers Have Flexible One-Two Punch in the Backfield

The San Francisco 49ers have solidified the running back position with the signing of Brian Westbrook. While Frank Gore is the acknowledged starter and leader of this unit, the signing of the former Eagle is an outstanding move by the Niners.

A healthy Frank Gore, backed up by Brian Westbrook, gives the 49ers a one-two punch that reminds me of the former San Diego Charger pair of LaDanian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles and the former Jacksonville tandem of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew.

While Gore is the main man in San Francisco, Westbrook brings excellent pass-catching skills, good blocking, and a veteran presence as the No. 2 man.  Westbrook also still has the breakaway ability that can turn a short pass or outside run into a long gainer.

The running style of Frank Gore and the punishment he takes has historically resulted in him missing a few games during the season due to injury. Since his arrival in the 2005 season, only once, in 2006, has Gore played all 16 games. Westbrook gives the 49ers a valuable backup who can also step in as a starter if needed. 

The third running back, sixth round draft pick Anthony Dixon, is a big bruising type of back who showed surprising elusiveness while rushing for 100 yards in his first preseason game against the Colts. The Westbrook signing gives Dixon time to develop and learn the NFL game, especially in areas he needs to improve, such as blitz pickup.

The Westbrook signing is the type of move that playoff teams make so kudos to new head personnel man Trent Baalke and coach Mike Singletary for getting it done. Westbrook stated that he wanted to play for a contender and had a great deal of respect for Singletary. These two factors ultimately helped him make the decision to come to San Francisco.