The San Francisco 49ers got some good news when running back Jerick McKinnon’s injury turned out to be a mere calf strain as opposed to something more serious. However, that injury will still keep McKinnon out for a while.
According to 49ers general manager John Lynch, McKinnon will not play for the remainder of preseason and won’t be seen again until Week 1 (per Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk).
McKinnon started their first preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys, finishing with -4 yards on three carries. He then suffered a leg injury in practice.
McKinnon, who signed a four-year, $30 million deal with the 49ers this offseason, is expected to be the team’s primary back this season following the departure of Carlos Hyde. The 49ers will look to utilize McKinnon’s ability as a pass catcher, which is a staple of Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
Given McKinnon's importance, it should come as no surprise that the Niners have elected not to take any more risks with his health in the preseason.
McKinnon becomes the second Niners running back likely to miss the rest of preseason. Matt Breida suffered a shoulder injury in their first preseason game, which has left him questionable to feature in Week 1 of the regular season.
With both McKinnon and Breida banged up, running backs Joe Williams and Raheem Mostert will get their opportunity to play and impress in the Niners’ upcoming preseason games. The 49ers will also likely give veteran Alfred Morris, whom they signed shortly after McKinnon’s injury, some playing time ahead of the season.
Follow Us
Subscribe