Christian McCaffrey did not play in the San Francisco 49ers' season opener due to a calf injury. Despite missing their star running back, they comfortably beat the New York Jets 32-19.
McCaffrey was limited in practice leading up to the game, but not playing on Monday night surprised many, especially the fantasy football players. Dealing with calf injuries can be quite challenging, especially when it involves a star player. As a result, the 49ers opted not to rush their chief playmaker back, thereby allowing him the time he needs to recuperate.
Week 2 Christian McCaffrey injury update
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According to Grant Cohn, Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Christian McCaffrey has Achilles tendinitis. The 49ers head coach also said that the 28-year-old running back would have played this past week had it been the playoffs.
Since it is only the beginning of the regular season, the 49ers will take their time before putting McAffrey back on the field. In his absence, third-year running back Jordan Mason had an outstanding game against the Jets.
Mason rushed for 147 yards and a touchdown on 28 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. He also had one reception for five yards and made sure the team didn't miss a beat without McCaffrey.
Mason's excellent game in Week 1 has allowed the 49ers to give McCaffrey more time. The NFC West team will play against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2, and it wouldn't be surprising if the consensus first overall pick in fantasy football this year misses his second straight game to start the season.
Should Fantasy Managers be concerned about the 49ers RB?
Christian McCaffrey not playing in Week 1 cost a lot of fantasy football managers. Since the game was on Monday night, there weren't many players left to replace him.
McCaffrey is expected to miss Week 2 but should return shortly. The 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams, and given that it will be a tough game for the reigning NFC champions, the running back will be in line to make his season debut against them.
McCaffrey didn't miss any games due to injury last season, and the managers who drafted him this year will hope that, once he's back, the former Panthers star will stay healthy.
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