49ers reveal potential return date for Christian McCaffrey
Dec 17, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) warms up before playing against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The San Francisco 49ers are speculating about a potential return date for running back Christian McCaffrey for the first time since his injury landed him on IR.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters Monday that the team does not anticipate McCaffrey being ready for the team’s Week 8 game against the Dallas Cowboys. Shanahan suggested that there was at least some possibility of McCaffrey making his season debut on Nov. 10, following the team’s bye week.
49ers HC Kyle Shanahan told reporters that he would be “surprised” if Christian McCaffrey were able to play Sunday night vs. the Cowboys, but he added that San Francisco’s star RB could be back after the bye on Nov. 10 vs. the Buccaneers. pic.twitter.com/z62goGjRLW
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 21, 2024
McCaffrey has yet to play this season due to Achilles tendonitis. The Niners have offered few details about the injury, particularly since placing him on injured reserve after their Week 2 game. This is the first time they have even speculated about a possible return date, though previous reports suggested a November return was the target.
If McCaffrey can get back for Week 11, that would mean the star running back will only miss one more game. That would be welcome news for the beleaguered 49ers offense, which lost another star player to a season-ending injury on Sunday.
The 49ers have received good production from Jordan Mason in McCaffrey’s absence, with Mason rushing for 667 yards in seven games. However, McCaffrey’s versatility and threat as a receiver is second to none, and the team desperately needs him back.
