Christian McCaffrey claims he is "ready to go" against Buccaneers in Week 10
The wait might be finally over for 49ers fans as Christian McCaffrey could finally lace up his cleats and return to action after an arduous eight frustrating weeks on injured reserve. This would be a much-needed spark in the San Francisco offense.
Since losing their star running back to injury, the 49ers have missed his explosiveness. McCaffrey, who led the league in rushing last season, ran for 1,459 yards for San Francisco and tallied 14 rushing touchdowns to help the team reach Super Bowl LVIII in February. Now at 4-4, San Francisco desperately needs his magic back on the field.
Christian McCaffrey addressed reporters following Friday's practice in Santa Clara about his emotional route to health before the team flew to Tampa Bay on Saturday:
"I feel good now and that's all that matters. It's a combination of a lot of things that go into it, our staff did an amazing job. Look, the last 8 weeks were extremely unfortunate for me.
"It's very tough being injured, it's tough physically, mentally, emotionally. Especially when it's not how you planned it, wasn't expected. Some stuff just went wrong but I'm feeling great now. Ready to go."
McCaffrey's path back wasn't straightforward. The 28-year-old even traveled to Germany seeking alternative treatments for his Achilles tendinitis. While tight-lipped about those medical details, his actions speak volumes about his desire to return and his value to the team.
Football "consumes 98 percent" of Christian McCaffrey’s life
The sidelines tested Christian McCaffrey's spirit and the running back admitted that the recovery process pushed him to his limits. He told reporters:
"It can be dark sometimes and especially when you're having to watch games, you're physically in pain," McCaffrey said. "Football consumes about 98 percent of my life. When it doesn't go right, it can be very tough. But all I know is it makes you realize how blessed and fortunate you are to play when you are on that field."
His return with a stronger commitment means revamping all of his work.
"I've changed a good amount," McCaffrey revealed about his workout routine. "I'm figuring it out every day. I got a good routine right now and I feel good."
The San Francisco 49ers might have some script flippers coming its way, courtesy of McCaffrey's imminent return. It has been good for the 49ers when the running back has suited up for them since 2022, winning 22 of 27 games.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Christian McCaffrey will be activated from IR on Saturday, setting the stage for his 2024 season debut against the Buccaneers. His return could mark a turning point for the 49ers as they push toward the NFC West crown.