Since joining the 49ers, Isaac Guerendo's rise to significant snaps came in the wake of injuries to star running backs Christian McCaffrey, Elijah Mitchell, and the up-and-coming Jordan Mason. The irony of injuries being the door to Guerendo's opportunity isn't lost on those familiar with his journey.
Isaac Guerendo: High School Star's Solid Foundation to San Francisco 49ers Standout
Isaac Guerendo grew up in Avon, Indiana, just outside Indianapolis in a family that has always played a pivotal role in his development, both on and off the field. His parents, Bruce and Renee Guerendo, have been foundational figures in his life, offering unwavering support throughout his journey. His mother, Renee, recalls the sacrifices made to ensure Isaac had the opportunities he needed to succeed. She says, "We knew Isaac had something special from a young age. We just wanted to make sure he was always surrounded by people who believed in him" (NFL.com, 2024).
Growing up in a sports-driven household, Guerendo was encouraged not only to pursue his athletic dreams but also to excel academically. His father, Bruce, who has a background in coaching, emphasized the importance of mental toughness and discipline. "Isaac has always been the hardest worker in the room," Bruce stated, emphasizing how those traits helped Isaac bounce back from numerous setbacks, especially injuries.
At Avon High School, he was a multi-sport athlete known for his speed and athletic prowess. Guerendo's talent was apparent in both track and football, where he excelled as a sprinter and wide receiver. During one standout game, he broke through the defensive line and ran an 80-yard touchdown that left both fans and scouts stunned. This play would come to define his "breakaway" speed—a trait that would follow him into college football and later the NFL.
Guerendo's record-breaking speed also made him a force in track and field, where he ran the 100-meter dash in 10.51 that rivaled professional sprinters, drawing the interest of various Division I programs (Indy Star, 2024). Avon head coach Mark Bless recalled that, even early on, Guerendo's work ethic made him a standout: "He was one of the first to show up and the last to leave, always looking to improve."
College Football at Wisconsin: Setbacks Build Resilience
Guerendo's college career began at the University of Wisconsin, where he initially faced setbacks. Early injuries impacted his time on the field, and he frequently found himself working through recovery. His resilience, however, was unwavering. Guerendo became known among his teammates for his ability to bounce back. At Wisconsin, he also became involved in the campus community, frequently volunteering at local schools to talk about the importance of education and perseverance.
One specific incident highlights his character: After a tough game, Guerendo spent hours signing autographs and talking to young fans, emphasizing the importance of resilience and hard work. He recalled how, as a kid, watching local college players and meeting his own role models had kept him motivated, so he wanted to offer the same to the next generation. "Seeing how much just a few words meant to those kids made me realize that football is about much more than the game itself," Guerendo said in an interview (49ers.com, 2024).
Transfer to Louisville: Community Involvement and Career Growth
When Guerendo transferred to Louisville, he not only continued developing as a player but also expanded his presence in the community. He regularly visited a youth football club in Louisville, where he'd train with young players on weekends, often running drills and encouraging kids to stay active and focused on school. According to one coach at the club, Guerendo would even spend his free time after practice to give one-on-one advice to players interested in college football pathways. His involvement left a lasting impact on both the players and the community, who saw him as a role model on and off the field (Indy Star, 2024).
On the field, Guerendo's speed and versatility as a running back made him a key player for Louisville. His speed set him apart, while also showcasing the athleticism that initially caught the 49ers' eye. Former Wisconsin teammate Jonathan Taylor, who now plays for the Indianapolis Colts, has commented on Guerendo's dedication, saying that "Isaac always pushed himself to the limit, and he made others around him better" (NBC Sports, 2024). Guerendo's explosive speed was complemented by his strength, making him a dual threat and an effective contributor to Louisville's offensive plays.
Domination at the NFL Combine
The NFL Combine was a turning point for Guerendo's career, where he impressed scouts with his combination of speed and power. He had a strong showing in several athletic categories, demonstrating the athleticism that Louisville and Wisconsin fans already knew well. Guerendo clocked his 40-yard dash at an impressive 4.33 official time with a 1.55 10-Yard Split, a time that ranks among the fastest for running backs in his draft class (NFL, 2024; Pro Football Focus, 2024).
Beyond his measurable stats, Guerendo's discipline and attention to detail shone through. At the Combine, he met with a local Indianapolis media group and shared that he'd prepared intensely, studying film of NFL players known for both their athleticism and technique. "I want to be more than fast. I want to be smart on the field, too," he told reporters (NBC Sports, 2024).
Off the Field: Social Media and Community Presence
In addition to his commitment to football, Guerendo has become increasingly active on social media, particularly on TikTok, where he shares workout videos, training routines, and personal reflections. His TikTok content gives fans an inside look at the dedication and effort required to maintain his level of athleticism. Guerendo's relatable and encouraging presence online has won him a devoted following, with fans especially drawn to his humble and approachable nature (TikTok, 2024).
Guerendo also maintains ties to his hometown, returning to Avon to participate in charity events and community gatherings. Last year, he helped organize a youth sports day, where he led drills and shared advice with young athletes. For Guerendo, these events are a chance to give back and stay connected to his roots: "Growing up, I had so many people who believed in me. Giving back is my way of showing that I haven't forgotten where I came from," he said in a recent interview (Facebook, 2024).
Looking Forward with the 49ers: Finding Opportunity Amid Challenges
The Niners selected Isaac with the 129th pick in the fourth round. Unfortunately, Guerendo's progress was hindered early on by injury and inconsistent play (EssentiallySports, 2024). Although Guerendo had a rocky start to the season, his resilience and grit were on full display as he worked his way back into more snaps, highlighted by his impressive performance in Week 6 against Seattle. During the game, he broke free for a 76-yard touchdown that was instrumental in clinching the victory and logged an incredible 66 rushing yards over expected (RYOE) — the most in Week 6 and the third-highest of the season. Guerendo reached a top speed of 20.64 mph on that run, placing him as the seventh-fastest that week, while covering 91.3 yards, making it the third-longest play of the game (Yahoo Sports, 2024).
Guerendo's making every snap count, proving his worth with impressive stats: 227 rushing yards on 37 carries, with a stellar 6.1 yards per carry (ESPN, 2024). His 49ers teammates are quick to recognize his work ethic, with top receiver Brandon Aiyuk noting, "Isaac comes to work every day ready to do whatever is asked of him. He's got all the tools; he just needed the chance to show it" (49ers.com, 2024). Running backs Christian McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell echo these sentiments, praising Guerendo's humility and relentless drive, qualities that have added a fresh spark to the backfield. His journey, resilience, and consistent performance have earned him a spotlight in San Francisco's offense, and with his work ethic and determination, 49ers fans should be hoping he sticks around for a long time.
