Maiocco’s minicamp takeaways: 49ers’ new CMC plan opens RB door

SANTA CLARA — Coach Kyle Shanahan suggested a goal of limiting the workload of star running back Christian McCaffrey. The completion of the 49ers' offseason program featured the common sights of backup running backs Elijah Mitchell and Jordan Mason running routes and catching passes out of the backfield. McCaffrey did not practice during the offseason program, including two days of the team's mandatory minicamp after he signed a two-year contract extension through the 2027 season. Mitchell caught just six passes for 14 yards last season, while Mason contributed three receptions for 31 yards. If the offseason program is any indication, Shanahan should have more faith in the pass-catching skills of both players. "Halfbacks can get six targets in a game without one play called for him just because they're on checkdowns a lot," Shanahan said. Mitchell led the way in previous practices this spring. On Wednesday, Mason caught three passes from quarterback Brock Purdy in offense vs. defense drills. The 49ers have been reluctant to take McCaffrey out of games, in large part because of his skills as a pass-catcher on third downs. As Mitchell and Mason develop more of those skills, the...