The San Francisco 49ers fans are understandably anxious when it comes to any signs of potential injury involving their star running back, Christian McCaffrey. After a challenging season in 2024, when McCaffrey was sidelined for 13 games due to various injuries, the team’s performance suffered, resulting in a 6-11 record and missing the playoffs.
Last year, McCaffrey made a strong comeback, playing in all games and amassing 2,126 yards from scrimmage. His contributions included 1,202 rushing yards and 924 receiving yards, along with 17 total touchdowns. His performance was instrumental in leading the 49ers to a 12-5 record and coming close to clinching the NFC West.
McCaffrey’s importance to the team’s success is undeniable. Given his previous injury troubles, the 49ers are taking measures to ensure that he is not overburdened. This strategy came into focus when McCaffrey missed a practice recently, causing concern among fans over his health.
“Yeah, obviously, when you don’t practice, the way the media works now it’s a firestorm,” McCaffrey explained to reporters. “But this was part of the plan from the jump, to ramp up pretty big, get nine or 10 practices in, kind of come back down, and then ramp back up so we’re fresh for the duration. I feel great. I feel fresh and it’s good to be back out there.”
This offseason, the 49ers have focused on their running back depth due to McCaffrey’s injury concerns. Reports indicate high expectations for rookie Kaelon Black, a third-round pick who showed promise with 1,040 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns last season at Indiana. He may serve as McCaffrey’s primary backup.
In addition, Jordan James has resumed practice after a rib injury, while Isaac Guerendo is recovering from a torn pectoral muscle, delaying his return to the field for several weeks. To further bolster the team’s options, veteran running backs Khalil Herbert and Zamir White have been signed, although their roles appear limited to providing training camp depth, with slim chances of making the 53-man roster.