San Francisco 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey has returned to practice after missing the first eight games of the season with Achilles tendonitis.
The Niners have been playing it slow and cautious with his rehab from that ailment, but he reportedly has had no pain while practicing.
As a result, he seems to be set to make his season debut.
“49ers RB Christian McCaffrey is expected to make his season debut on Sunday vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per [head coach] Kyle Shanahan on KNBR. The return is here,” Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team wrote on X.
#49ers RB Christian McCaffrey is expected to make his season-debut on Sunday vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per HC Kyle Shanahan on @KNBR.
The return is here.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 7, 2024
McCaffrey is a huge weapon for the 49ers, and while their offense has been solid during his absence, it is virtually impossible to replace the production of a player as versatile as he is.
He led the NFL in rushing yards, total yards from scrimmage and total touchdowns last season, which earned him the Offensive Player of the Year award, and in 2019, he became just the third player to ever post 1,000 rushing and receiving yards in the same season.
He is such a threat that his mere presence frees up his teammates by drawing plenty of defensive attention.
McCaffrey transformed the Niners from a solid but stale offensive team into an explosive unit when he arrived in a midseason trade two years ago, and his return could have a similar impact as they look to improve on a 4-4 record and get hot the rest of the way.
NEXT:
Fred Warner Reacts To Seeing Christian McCaffrey At Practice
