Sermon is one of four available running backs for the 49ers on Sunday against the Packers after Elijah Mitchell (shoulder) was deemed inactive, Keiana Martin of the 49ers' official site reports.
Joining Sermon are Kerryon Johnson, Jacques Patrick and Trenton Cannon. Due to the draft capital invested in Sermon, a 2021 third-round pick, and his experience in coach Kyle Shanahan's system relative to the other three, he likely will lead San Francisco's backfield Week 3, despite his much-publicized slide down the depth chart in recent weeks. Clearly, injuries to Mitchell, Raheem Mostert (knee) and JaMycal Hasty (ankle) have opened up an opportunity for Sermon, but an impressive performance Sunday could solidify his standing in Shanahan's mind moving forward.