McKinnon notched a 108-yard kickoff return touchdown, rushed seven times for 27 yards and secured all four of his targets for 31 yards in Sunday's 32-31 preseason win over the 49ers.
McKinnon made a statement of significant proportions in Sunday's contest, showcasing his diverse skill set and game-breaking speed. The fourth-year Georgia Southern product had turned in a modest showing in his preseason debut against the Seahawks last Friday, and he'd also suffered through a down rushing season overall in 2016 while averaging just 3.4 yards per carry. Therefore, his breakout effort against the Niners was reminiscent of some of the fireworks that McKinnon often created as a complementary, change-of-pace option in his first two seasons. McKinnon figures to slot back into that role alongside Dalvin Cook and Latavius Murray in 2017, likely seeing his most extensive work in the passing game and as a kick returner.