San Francisco 49ers All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey traveled to Germany for specialized treatment for Achilles tendinitis, which has troubled him since the beginning of training camp. Initially, the team placed him on injured reserve, stating rest was needed, but now McCaffrey is seeking further treatment in hopes of accelerating his recovery.
Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed McCaffrey’s visit to a specialist in Germany, expressing optimism about the potential benefits of the treatment. McCaffrey initially suffered the injury in training camp, missing four weeks of practice before briefly returning prior to the season opener. However, after aggravating the injury during a practice session, he was placed on injured reserve just days before the 49ers’ first game. While McCaffrey is eligible to return in Week 6, there’s no clear timetable for his recovery.
McCaffrey was a standout last season, leading the NFL with 2,023 yards from scrimmage and tying for the league lead with 21 touchdowns, earning AP Offensive Player of the Year honors. Despite a history of injuries, he remained relatively healthy over the past two seasons, missing just one game during that span.
The 49ers are also dealing with several other injuries. Star defensive tackle Javon Hargrave suffered a partially torn triceps, which will require surgery, likely ending his season. Shanahan noted that Hargrave had been performing well and that his absence will be significant for the team. Additionally, quarterback Brock Purdy is nursing a sore back, though MRI results were clean, and tight end George Kittle is expected to return after missing a game with a hamstring injury.
The 49ers hope to weather these injuries as they navigate a challenging start to the season.
