The San Francisco 49ers will host the New York Jets in Week 1 on Monday Night Football, and running back Christian McCaffrey is listed as questionable due to a calf and Achilles injury sustained during the preseason. Despite his limited practice participation throughout the week, McCaffrey is expected to play, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Though fans and fantasy owners might be concerned, the star running back is likely to suit up, albeit with a potentially lighter workload. McCaffrey expressed hopes of receiving his usual number of touches. The 49ers, favored to make another deep playoff run, face a strong Jets team led by Aaron Rodgers and an elite defense, making for an exciting season opener.
From @GMFB: More on tonight's #Jets–#49ers game on MNF, with Christian McCaffrey (calf/Achilles) set to play, while NYJ pass-rusher Haason Reddick's saga continues. pic.twitter.com/syU2C4saOo
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 9, 2024
McCaffrey’s presence on the field is a game-changer for San Francisco, as head coach Kyle Shanahan utilizes his versatile skillset as both a runner and receiver. Last season, McCaffrey accumulated 2,023 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns, earning the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year award. Despite the injury concerns, all signs point to McCaffrey playing in the highly anticipated matchup on Monday night.