Running back Christian McCaffrey has been added to the injury report with a calf issue just days before the San Francisco 49ers open the 2025 NFL season. This follows a challenging 2024 season for the 28-year-old, who missed 13 games due to a calf injury that initially appeared to be a short-term setback but evolved into a season-ending issue. The 49ers, who acquired McCaffrey from the Carolina Panthers in 2022, had high hopes for him, particularly after he led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns in his last full season.
The injury history of McCaffrey raises concerns for the 49ers, who made it to the NFC championship and Super Bowl in his first two seasons with the team. However, the 2024 season saw the team miss the playoffs for the first time since 2020, partly due to injuries to key players like McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk. His latest calf issue adds to the existing concerns about his ability to contribute for the 2025 season.
McCaffrey, who was the No. 1 pick in most fantasy drafts for the 2023 season, had been healthy this offseason and did not have a designation on the injury report as of Wednesday. The 49ers are now preparing for their season opener against the NFC West rival Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, with the team’s success likely hinging significantly on McCaffrey’s availability. His return to the injury report underscores the challenges the 49ers may face in their pursuit of a playoff berth this year.