Adam Schefter Reveals When 49ers Expect to Have Christian McCaffrey Back
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has yet to play a down this season due to Achilles tendonitis in both of his legs.
The team placed the reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year on injured reserve in Week 2, and though he's eligible to return to play in Week 6 against the Seattle Seahawks on "Thursday Night Football" on Thursday, Oct. 10, it's unlikely McCaffrey will be ready to go by then.
However, ESPN insider Adam Schefter did give 49ers fans a little optimism when he revealed the targeted return date for the All-Pro running back on Saturday.
"If his progress continues without any setbacks, McCaffrey could return Oct. 20 for a Super Bowl rematch against the Chiefs, according to league sources," Schefter reported .
Of course, there's always a chance McCaffrey's tendonitis flares up and his return date has to be pushed back, in which case Schefter says there are two other games the 49ers would then have circled as possible dates to have him rejoin the team.
"There also is a chance McCaffrey could return for an Oct. 27 game against the Cowboys, according to sources," Schefter added. "But even more reasonably, the 49ers could opt to sit McCaffrey for both those games and then give him the bye week to continue to ramp up for their next game at Tampa Bay on Nov. 10."
It seems the Week 10 matchup against the Bucs is San Francisco's worst-case scenario when it comes to McCaffrey's return.
In his absence, Jordan Mason has filled in admirably. The 25-year-old RB has had three 100-yard games and he's scored three touchdowns while ranking second in the NFL in rushing.
This story was originally published October 5, 2024, 10:19 PM.
