49ers superstar Christian McCaffrey is facing a longer than expected absence. The San Francisco franchise is now even considering putting the running back on the IR list.
by Daniel Kugler
49ers fans and fantasy managers need to be strong now.
As ESPN expert Adam Schefter reports, the injury to star running back Christian McCaffrey is worse than expected.
San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan told media representatives on Friday that the franchise is now even considering placing the 28-year-old on the IR list, which would require him to watch at least four games.
Reporter Dov Kleiman posted a clip of the press conference on “X” (formerly Twitter) that confirmed the dire fears. “That’s something we’re considering now. Yesterday was his worst day. It goes back and forth, but since he was in the most pain yesterday, we’ll discuss that in the next 24 hours,” Shanahan said, describing the franchise’s considerations.
Meanwhile, McCaffrey will definitely miss Week 2’s game against the Minnesota Vikings due to his ongoing calf injury and Achilles tendonitis.
McCaffrey had also already missed the season opener of the previous season’s Super Bowl participant against the New York Jets and was replaced at short notice by Jordan Mason, who impressed with 28 rushes for 147 yards and a touchdown.
The 25-year-old signed a three-year contract with the Niners for just under $2.6 million in 2022, but has barely made an appearance to date. He is expected to step into the breach again in the coming weeks. McCaffrey’s backup Elijah Mitchell will miss the entire season with a thigh injury.
