The San Francisco 49ers are in survival mode after a string of injuries, and now All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey has sought specialized treatment for his Achilles tendonitis in Germany.
McCaffrey, who has been sidelined since early in training camp, flew overseas in the hopes of finding a solution to an injury that continues to hinder his ability to take the field.
McCaffrey’s Germany Visit: A Race Against Time
Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that McCaffrey’s Achilles issue, which has kept him on injured reserve since September 14, required outside intervention. “I know he’s going to see a specialist that I believe can help him with his Achilles process,” Shanahan shared with reporters. “I think he’s doing that over these next few days, and hopefully, it’ll help.”
McCaffrey initially injured his Achilles during training camp, missing four weeks of practice before attempting a limited return ahead of the season opener. While he was listed as questionable, the team made a late decision to keep him out of the game, and his condition worsened shortly after.
He remains eligible to return for Week 6 against the Seattle Seahawks, but his timeline is uncertain, leaving a critical void in the 49ers’ offense.
The 49ers are missing the player who led the NFL in 2023 with 2,023 scrimmage yards and tied for the league lead with 21 touchdowns. His absence is not just a blow to the team’s running game but to their entire offensive strategy, given his versatility and productivity.
Hargrave’s Season-Ending Injury: More Bad News for the 49ers
McCaffrey’s Achilles isn’t the only concern for the 49ers. Star defensive tackle Javon Hargrave suffered a partially torn triceps during Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams. Shanahan called Hargrave’s injury “a big one,” adding, “I thought he had his best game yesterday. He was really affecting the quarterback.”
The loss of Hargrave further depletes a roster already dealing with injuries to key players like George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, and Nick Bosa. Though Jordan Elliott is expected to step in for Hargrave, the team’s depth is being tested as they face more challenging matchups in the coming weeks.
Quarterback Brock Purdy is also day-to-day with a sore back, though an MRI returned clean. Shanahan expressed hope that Kittle will be available for the next game, and the team remains optimistic about the return of Dre Greenlaw later in the season.
