Christian McCaffrey allayed concerns about his recent illness after logging a full practice session on Friday, but fans should never celebrate too early when it comes to the San Francisco 49ers star running back's status. He is now considered questionable for Sunday's home game versus the Tennessee Titans due to a back injury, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Although there is not much information currently known about this issue, a McCaffrey health scare is arguably what fans fear most. The 49ers (9-4) are somehow still in an NFC Wild Card slot after enduring so much adversity, but their chances of survival would obviously decrease rapidly if the former Offensive Player of the Year were to miss extended time. Fortunately, the injury does not appear serious. McCaffrey is still expected to be “good to go,” against the Titans according to Schefter.
Everyone can take a breathe, at least for now. While there is obviously concern about the two-time First-Team All-Pro potentially suffering a setback, this report indicates that the Niners are not worried. Players push through pain and discomfort all the time, especially during a heated playoff race, but one would assume that San Francisco would not be reckless with McCaffrey.
The 29-year-old is a frequent injury risk, having missed more than half the season four times in his NFL career. When on the field, though, he is an indisputable game-changer. Christian McCaffrey has 1,655 scrimmage yards and 13 total touchdowns this season, serving as the engine for an offense that has been shorthanded all season-long. His presence is helping the 49ers remain relevant.
The three-time Pro Bowler is only averaging 3.6 yard per carry, but assuming he suits up on Sunday versus the Titans (2-11), he should have a solid opportunity to raise that number.
