San Francisco’s Star Running Back Still on the Mend
Despite being eligible to return, Christian McCaffrey will not take the field for the 49ers’ Thursday night showdown against the Seattle Seahawks. The three-time Pro Bowl running back has been sidelined since Week 2 with calf and Achilles tendinitis issues, and his return remains uncertain.
McCaffrey’s progress hinges on his performance in practice, and while he did not experience any setbacks during on-field work this week, the team is taking a cautious approach. The 28-year-old’s bilateral Achilles tendinitis is concentrated in one leg, with the other leg faring better, according to sources.
The 49ers are hopeful that McCaffrey will avoid any further setbacks as he ramps up his training. If all goes well, he could make his return on October 20 against the Kansas City Chiefs or on October 27 against the Dallas Cowboys. However, the team may opt to sit him out for both games and give him the bye week to continue his rehabilitation before their November 10 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
McCaffrey’s journey to recovery has been a long one, with the star running back traveling to Germany last month to consult with a specialist. He initially suffered the injury during training camp and missed four weeks of practice before returning to the field on a limited basis. Despite being a late scratch for the season opener, McCaffrey’s determination to get back on the field has not wavered.
Last season, McCaffrey led the NFL with 2,023 yards from scrimmage and tied for the league lead with 21 touchdowns, earning him AP Offensive Player of the Year honors. The 49ers are eager to have their star running back back in the lineup, but they are prioritizing his health and well-being above all else.
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