The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for the start of the week with some key reinforcements returning to action. One player who is back in the fold is running back Christian McCaffrey, who at 28 years old, had not been a major concern with his injury status. However, the team did suffer a blow last week when Elijah Mitchell was placed on season-ending Injured Reserve, depriving the 49ers of one of their top running backs.
The good news about McCaffrey’s return comes on the heels of the team signing wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and left tackle Trent Williams to contract extensions in the past week. With the whole crew now back together, the 49ers are looking solid heading into Week 1.
Aiyuk, like McCaffrey, is set to practice for the first time this week in the hopes of quickly ramping up his workload to be ready for the season opener. McCaffrey has a history of dealing with calf strains, having left a game early last year with the same injury but playing through it during the playoffs.
In addition to his calf issues, McCaffrey also dealt with an oblique injury earlier in the season that limited his playing time. Nevertheless, the veteran running back has largely been healthy throughout his tenure with the 49ers, playing 17 games in 2022 and 16 games in 2023. With his health improving, the likelihood of McCaffrey suiting up for Week 1 is high.
Having left tackle Trent Williams back in action would be a boon for McCaffrey and the team, but Williams’ status remains uncertain until he resumes practicing. The 49ers are hoping for a quick ramp-up for Williams ahead of their Monday night matchup.
As the 49ers prepare for the start of the season, the return of McCaffrey and the potential availability of Williams are positive developments that bode well for the team’s chances in Week 1.