NFL Insider Provides Key Injury Update on 49ers' Star RB Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey, the San Francisco 49ers' running back, was unexpectedly withdrawn from the Monday Night Football lineup in Week 1 against the New York Jets.

In the game against the Jets, Jordan Mason did well performing in McCaffrey's place. He carried the majority of the rushing duties, amassing 147 yards on 28 carries. He scored a touchdown, achieved eight first downs, and also made a five-yard catch.

McCaffrey is coming off a 2023 season where he won the Associated Press' NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award. On 272 rushes, he gained up to 1,459 yards and 14 touchdowns. In the receiving game, he made 67 catches for 564 yards and seven touchdowns.

While the 49ers can feel safe at the moment with Mason giving significant production, having their star running back return as soon as possible would be beneficial to their offense remaining elite and having all their best options available.

He is reportedly suffering from Achilles tendinitis, casting doubt on his availability for Week 2.

"Christian McCaffrey is a longshot to play this week against the Minnesota Vikings," NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday morning, citing conversations he had had with people around 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."

Previously, a calf issue was the focus, and it is believed that the new injury is related.

Currently, there is no reason to worry about McCaffrey's long-term health, and Rapoport suggested that the decision to sideline him for Week 1 and possibly Week 2 is a strategic move to preserve his health for the entire season.

The 49ers have reached the NFC Championship or beyond in four of the last five years, but they have not clinched a Super Bowl in two attempts.

Related: ESPN Reporter Issues Unsolicited Advice for 49ers Amid Christian McCaffrey-Jordan Mason Dilemma