Christian McCaffrey Set to Return for 49ers This Week
The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up to see their offensive star, Christian McCaffrey, make his 2024 NFL season debut this Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The 28-year-old running back has been sidelined since the season opener due to a calf injury, which later developed into bilateral Achilles tendinitis.
McCaffrey was a standout for the 49ers’ offense last season, finishing as the NFL’s leading rusher with 1,459 yards and 14 rushing touchdowns. He also contributed through the air with 67 catches, totaling 564 yards and seven touchdowns—key stats that helped push the 49ers to the Super Bowl, where they were ultimately defeated by the Kansas City Chiefs.
“He’s been incredible these last two days. You never know if there will be any setbacks, but from what I’ve seen, I’m optimistic we’ll have him ready,” said head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Shanahan is also hoping to have two more of quarterback Brock Purdy’s favorite targets back on the field: wide receivers Jauan Jennings, who’s been dealing with a hip injury, and Deebo Samuel, recovering from a rib issue. Both are on track to play against the Bucs.
Currently, the 49ers sit third in the NFC West with a 4-4 record, tied with the Los Angeles Rams and trailing the Arizona Cardinals, who lead the division at 5-4.