NFL insider gives 49ers fans concerning news about Christian McCaffrey's injury status
Christian McCaffrey became the highest-paid NFL running back this offseason after signing a two-year $38 million extension. The 49ers hoped McCaffrey would continue his near MVP-level play this fall.
Unfortunately, the 28-year-old suffered a setback during training camp when calf and Achilles issues sidelined him during the preseason. The injury carried into the regular season as he missed the 49ers' opener and was placed on injured reserve.
Following San Francisco's Week 4 win against New England, reports surfaced that the team would increase their ailing RB's activity with the intention of him returning soon. However, this morning on the Pat McAfee Show, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter stated the 49ers don't know when McCaffrey will play again.
Schefter said:
"I don't think Christian McCaffrey or the 49ers know when he's coming back... They are going to begin to ramp up Christian McCaffrey, potentially starting this week to get him back... but who knows how the calf and Achilles is going to react. In their minds, they're not thinking that he's out for the season at all like it was brought to Kyle Shanahan last week. The thought of that has never occurred to them. It should be occurring because nobody knows when he's coming back."
Jordan Mason has played well for the San Francisco 49ers in Christian McCaffrey's absence
With Christian McCaffrey sidelined to begin the season, Jordan Mason has filled in well. Mason has 91 carries for 447 yards and three touchdowns through his first four games. He also has six catches for 57 yards.
Much like McCaffrey, Mason is an offensive workhorse for San Francisco.
Only four other players and one running back have carried the ball for the 49ers this season. Mason has 447 of the team's 567 rushing yards and has 91 of the team's 129 carries.
If Christian McCaffrey returns this season, Mason's role will be reduced, but the 49ers will likely feature him alongside their All-Pro dual threat.