Head Coach Kyle Shanahan Breaks Silence, Explains Why Two-Time Super Bowl Veteran Kendrick Bourne Has “Disappeared” From 49ers Offense

From the legendary days at Candlestick Park to the sacred halls of Canton, San Francisco 49ers icon Roger Craig has finally received football’s highest individual honor. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame has sent a wave of emotion throughout the NFL — an announcement that feels overdue, yet perfectly timed. For generations of 49ers fans, the news represents more than recognition. It represents history finally catching up. Roger Craig was never just a running back. He was a transformation. In the 1980s, under Bill Walsh’s revolutionary West Coast offense, Craig reshaped what the position could be. While most running backs were measured by brute force and rushing totals, Craig brought intelligence, versatility, and finesse. He could punish defenses between the tackles, then seamlessly shift into a receiving threat, exploiting mismatches with precision routes and reliable hands. In 1985, Craig accomplished something no player in NFL history had ever done. He rushed for over 1,000 yards and recorded more than 1,000 receiving yards in the same season — a milestone so far ahead of its time that it stood unmatched for decades. Today’s dual-threat backs are celebrated league-wide. Roger Craig authored the blueprint. His influence extended far beyond statistics. Craig was the heartbeat of a dynasty. As a foundational piece of the 49ers’ offense, he helped deliver three Super Bowl championships, serving as a constant in one of the most dominant eras the NFL has ever witnessed. His durability, consistency, and calm presence in high-stakes moments made him indispensable to San Francisco’s rise. Yet despite his revolutionary impact, championship résumé, and historic production, Craig waited years longer than expected for football’s ultimate honor. Fans and peers never questioned his greatness — but official recognition remained elusive. Until now. This induction feels like a long-overdue correction. Roger Craig’s legacy is embedded in the modern game. Every running back praised for versatility, every offense built around exploiting mismatches from the backfield, carries his influence. He didn’t just excel within the system — he changed the system itself. For the 49ers faithful, this moment is one of pride and validation. It honors a player who innovated, sacrificed, and delivered championships without demanding attention. His excellence was quiet, consistent, and undeniable. Now, Roger Craig’s name stands forever among the legends of the sport. Not only as a Super Bowl champion. Not only as a 49ers great. But as a Pro Football Hall of Famer whose impact transcended eras. Eternal glory has finally found Roger Craig — and the history of football is richer because of it.