The next step in Christian McCaffrey‘s return has been taken. The 49ers announced on Monday he has returned to practice, opening his 21-day activation window. 
The news comes as little surprise with San Francisco opting to keep McCaffrey on injured reserve through the team’s bye week. A season debut during Week 10 has long been a target, and that remains the case. Indeed, ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirms last season’s Offensive Player of the Year is still on track to suit up for the 49ers’ next game.
McCaffrey missed time in the summer with an Achilles issue which did not immediately seem to threaten his availability for the regular season. The 28-year-old was ultimately placed on injured reserve, however, before taking a trip to Germany to see a specialist. A period of recovery was in place upon return before McCaffrey began a ramp-up phase in his rehab.
Roughly one month ago, the three-time Pro Bowler resumed on-field work, and he has not encountered any setbacks since. Today’s move opens McCaffrey’s activation window, and he must be moved to the active roster within three weeks to avoid reverting to season-ending IR. Provided that takes place, San Francisco’s offense will receive a major boost.
McCaffrey led the NFL in rushing last season, and he topped the league in total scrimmage yards (2,023) and touchdowns (21). A repeat of that production will not be possible given his missed time in 2024, but having a full strength backfield will be key for the 49ers. The team sits at 4-4 on the year despite ranking near the top of the league in several offensive categories, including rushing production (159 yards per game). Jordan Mason and Isaac Guerendo have filled in during McCaffrey’s absence, but with Brandon Aiyuk out for the year, a full stable of running backs will be key moving forward.
San Francisco also opened the practice window of offensive lineman Jon Feliciano. The 32-year-old was moved to injured reserve one day after roster cutdowns, so his activation will count toward the team’s limit of eight for the regular season. The same is true of McCaffrey as well, of course. When both are brought back into the fold, the 49ers will have four activations remaining.
Don’t see them running table by beating teams like Bills, Commies, Philly, GB, Lions(won’t rest starters). Not saying they lose all of these but most. Cards have easiest schedule and tiebreakers.
I guess you didn’t know that they have one of the best records coming off of their bye week in the NFL. They get CMC, Dre, Hufanga and JJ back in the coming weeks and the front office is going to add pieces. Not smart to underestimate this team.
Reality Check: 49ers have 3 of their next 4 on the road — 2 of those away games are in the Eastern Time zone. The one home game is a rematch with Seattle.