Jordan James — 2026 Fantasy Outlook

James carved out a larger role each season during his three years at Oregon, culminating in a 2024 campaign that saw him rack up 1,476 combined yards, 15 touchdowns, and 26 catches on 259 touches. A year earlier, he flashed more as a big-play threat out of a rotational role, averaging 7.1 yards per carry in 2023.

His athleticism numbers aren't going to turn heads. James ran a 4.55 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, which was below the threshold most teams look for at the position, and several other measurables fell short of the NFL average as well. His biggest area to clean up is his patience in the running game; he tends to hit gaps before they've fully developed rather than letting his blockers do their work. James’ value will come from running through contact and making defenders miss in open space. His pass protection is serviceable enough to keep him on the field in obvious passing situations, which opens the door to a three-down role if he continues to develop.

The 49ers had James on the field for only 17 plays last year, with his only touches coming in their final game (6/28 with one catch for seven yards) of the postseason.