Christian McCaffrey was unexpectedly inactive for the San Francisco 49ers’ season opener last week, and there are concerns that the star running back may also miss Week 2.
In an interview on KNBR radio, 49ers GM John Lynch addressed McCaffrey’s status ahead of the team’s Sunday matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. Lynch described McCaffrey’s Achilles tendinitis as “frustrating” and emphasized the team’s long-term focus on his recovery.
Will McCaffrey play at Minny?
“Don’t know that answer. Dealing with Achilles tendinitis, could be good one day and then it flares. Been frustrating. We’re thinking in long view. … We need Christian healthy, fully out there and don’t want to compromise anything” -GM Lynch on KNBR— Cam Inman (@CamInman) September 13, 2024
“We’re not sure yet,” Lynch said. “It’s Achilles tendinitis, and while some days are better than others, it can flare up. It’s been frustrating, and we’re taking the long view. We want him fully healthy and don’t want to risk anything.”
Lynch didn’t rule out the possibility of placing McCaffrey on injured reserve, which would sideline him for at least four games.
“If that’s what’s necessary, we’ll do it,” Lynch added. “We’ll see how he feels today after a good practice yesterday. All options are on the table, and we’ll do what’s best for both Christian and the team.”
John Lynch on if the 49ers would put Christian McCaffrey on IR:
"If that's the right thing, it's what we'll do. First of all we'll see how he's doing today after a good session yesterday. All options, as Kyle has said are on the table. We'll do what's right for Christian and… pic.twitter.com/tFfQeogLWu
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers) September 13, 2024
McCaffrey’s Achilles tendinitis has lingered since the playoffs last season, raising concerns about his full recovery. While coach Kyle Shanahan suggested McCaffrey could have played in Week 1 if the stakes were higher, the recurring nature of the injury leaves questions about whether he will be fully healthy at any point this season.
