49ers HC comments on whether RB Christian McCaffrey could miss season

The 49ers placed star running back Christian McCaffrey ( Achilles tendinitis ) on injured reserve nearly two weeks ago, sidelining him for at least four games. However, there is growing belief it could be much longer.

On Monday night, ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that McCaffrey is traveling to Germany over the weekend to visit a specialist regarding his Achilles tendinitis.

That, of course, caused many to believe his injury was far more severe than previously thought.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan didn't have much to update on the situation on Wednesday.

"No update," Shanahan said via Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. "I haven't talked to him."

Still, reporters felt it was necessary to continue digging and find an answer to everyone's question: Is there a chance McCaffrey won't play for the rest of the season?

Shanahan's response: "Not that I know of."

While that was far from a confident answer, Shanahan is waiting for answers like everybody else.

It has been an unideal start to the season for 1-2 San Francisco, as several key players have suffered injuries.

Outside of McCaffrey, quarterback Brock Purdy (back), wide receiver Deebo Samuel (calf) and tight end George Kittle (hamstring) have all shown up on the injury report to begin the year.

Luckily, none seem to have as serious of an injury as McCaffrey, and running back Jordan Mason has been filling in quite well in the meantime.

The third-year running back has rushed for 324 yards and two touchdowns in the season's first three games. He's also reeled in four catches for 20 yards.

It remains to be seen how long McCaffrey will be sidelined, but the 49ers will not have him in Week 4 when they host the New England Patriots (1-2).

McCaffrey has struggled to stay healthy in the past. The 2024 season seems to be following suit.