Just before the NFL regular season kicked off with Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night, some concerning injury news broke.
San Francisco 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey was on the injury report with a calf problem, listed as a limited participant at Thursday's practice.
The 'Niners open the season Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.
Two seasons ago, McCaffrey was the best running back in football. He led the NFL with 1,459 rushing yards, scored 14 touchdowns, and also caught 67 passes for 564 yards and seven more TDs.
But last season, McCaffrey only got on the field for four games as he battled two separate injuries. He carried 50 times for 202 yards (4.0 ypc) and had 15 catches for 146 yards.
There's a lot at stake here.
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Why Christian McCaffrey's injury is a real concern
The big issue here: CMC wasn't on the injury report on Wednesday.
Whatever this problem was, it either arose between practices or at Thursday's practice.
If McCaffrey was out there to start Thursday but got hurt partway through, he'd be listed as limited.
His Friday practice status will be crucial to paint a whole picture.
McCaffrey also dealt with Achilles tendinitis last year. Given the calf's proximity to the Achilles, if it's in the same leg, it's a greater concern, too.
This is something that will have 'Niners fans holding their breath until better news comes out.
49ers RB depth chart
The San Francisco 49ers bolstered their running back depth chart with a recent trade.
This is how it looks heading into Week 1:
- Christian McCaffrey
- Brian Robinson Jr.
- Isaac Guerendo
- Jordan James
Robinson started for the Commanders last season and would be a solid fill-in if needed.
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