49ers’ Super Bowl revenge in jeopardy? Christian McCaffrey remains unavailable to play vs. Chiefs
Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers' RB, is expected to start after the bye week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Christian McCaffrey (Image via Imago)
San Francisco 49ers’ running back Christian McCaffrey has been officially reported to be unavailable for Week 7. The reigning Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) will not thus make the Super Bowl LVIII rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs.
McCaffrey missed the first game of the season against the New York Jets and has since been placed in Injured Reserve (IR) ahead of Week 2. Initially, it was thought that the player had a calf strain – limiting his play. However, it was later revealed that the star player suffered Achilles tendonitis in both feet.
The player underwent treatment in Germany in association with the injury. The treatment has been working well considering there haven’t been any setbacks since he made the field for practices.
Kyle Shanahan, the head coach of the Niners, spoke to the media regarding the star RB. He has confirmed that McCaffrey won’t make a return in Week 7. The HC also didn’t give a satisfactory response on when the player will return to the field.
49ers RB Christian McCaffrey is not expected to play next week vs. the Chiefs. https://t.co/oy717zmwnN
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 11, 2024
It is speculated that McCaffrey might return in Week 10 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The return will be in November after the 49ers go into the bye week in Week 9. The win against the division title holders Seattle Seahawks has lowered the panic meter.
Though the player is eager to return, both management and McCaffrey are cautious to avoid worsening the situation. Rushing back could lead to more damage or even a full tendon rupture—a painful setback that would prolong recovery and cause further discomfort.
49ers consider options after Christian McCaffrey’s backup injures during TNF
The San Francisco 49ers have been dealt another bad hand after McCaffrey’s injury. After McCaffrey was placed on injured reserve, backup Jordan Mason stepped in as the interim starter. Mason excelled in the role, recording 536 rushing yards and three touchdowns on a league-high 105 carries through the first five games.
However, Mason suffered a shoulder injury during their TNF game in Week 6. San Francisco was forced to rely on a rookie to take over ball-carrying duties for the remainder of the game. Isaac Guerendo logged 10 carries for 99 yards.
Guerendo also had a 76-yard dash that sealed the Niners victory as well. After Mason’s injury, Guerendo took on the majority of the carries, stepping up in the 49ers’ backfield. If Mason is sidelined for any time, Guerendo is expected to take over as the team’s starting running back.
The other option the 49ers have is Patrick Taylor Jr. Taylor Jr, who spent the last three years with the Green Bay Packers, will however be a last resort. He had a career-high 141 rushing yards last season with 11 receptions with limited field time.
Mohammed Bazim
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