In a shocking turn of events, Christian McCaffrey was unable to take the field for Monday Night Football in Week 1 against the New York Jets. The star running back for the San Francisco 49ers is now dealing with Achilles tendinitis, throwing his availability for Week 2 into question.
“Christian McCaffrey is a longshot to play this week against the Minnesota Vikings,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed, shedding light on the situation. “The 49ers all thought [he] was going to shake off some tightness that he felt late in the week of practice… He worked out pregame [against the Jets] and it was just not quite right.”
Initially thought to be battling a calf ailment, it seems that McCaffrey’s Achilles issue may be linked to his previous injury. However, there is no need to sound the alarm bells regarding his long-term health. Rapoport emphasized that the decision to hold him out of Week 1 and potentially Week 2 is purely precautionary, aiming to preserve his well-being for the entirety of the season.
In McCaffrey’s absence, Jordan Mason stepped up admirably, carrying the bulk of the rushing load against the Jets. He racked up an impressive 147 yards on 28 attempts, finding the end zone and moving the chains with eight first downs. Additionally, he contributed a five-yard reception to the passing game.
Despite their recent successes, with four NFC Championship appearances in the last five years, the 49ers have yet to secure a Super Bowl victory in two attempts. As they navigate through McCaffrey’s injury concerns, the team remains focused on their ultimate goal of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.