49ers Rumors: Christian McCaffrey Expected to Return 'by Early November' from Injury

Chris Unger/ San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey is on track to return by early November as he deals with Achilles tendinitis, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Niners fans and fantasy football managers across the country got an unwanted surprise when McCaffrey was ruled out for Week 1 thanks to calf and Achilles injuries. The situation only got worse with San Francisco placing him on injured reserve.

That ruled the two-time All-Pro out for a minimum of four games, with Rapoport reporting he'd need up to six weeks of recovery. He recently traveled to Germany to see a specialist for his Achilles injury.

Some of the panic stemming from McCaffrey's absence subsided relatively quickly thanks to how seamlessly Jordan Mason transitioned into a higher-usage role. The third-year running back has rushed for 324 yards and two touchdowns on 67 carries.

While nowhere near the receiving threat that McCaffrey is, Mason has at least provided a steady presence on the ground.

McCaffrey's value to San Francisco goes without saying. His 2,023 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns scored were both the highest in the NFL in 2023.

There are enough pieces at the skill positions along with the Kyle Shanahan's coaching to believe the Niners offense can keep its head above water until the 28-year-old ball-carrier is back on the field. Having him back to 100 percent in time for the playoffs is the overriding concern.