Christian McCaffrey a surprise inactive for 49ers’ season-opener against Jets

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The 49ers were without star running back Christian McCaffrey for Monday night’s game against the Jets.

McCaffrey was announced as a surprise inactive before the game. The 28-year-old has been dealing with a calf strain that cost him four weeks of training camp, but he had returned to practice and was expected to play.

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The 49ers listed him this week as having a calf/Achilles injury, which raised some eyebrows. But McCaffrey told reporters on Friday that his calf was feeling “much better” and his Achilles is “not a concern for me.”

McCaffrey said he had no doubt that he would play against the Jets. Jordan Mason was expected to make his first career start in place of McCaffrey, who is the reigning AP Offensive Player of the Year and rushing champion.

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McCaffrey had 1,459 rushing yards on 272 carries and 14 rushing touchdowns. He had an additional 564 receiving yards and seven receiving touchdowns.

The Jets spoke about preparing for McCaffrey all week. While the 49ers have many talented offensive players, McCaffrey is the unquestioned top weapon for San Francisco

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