The San Francisco 49ersâ best player is running back Christian McCaffrey. However, he is also injury prone and thatâs awful as a fan, since any given moment could really derail your expectations.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan has been vocal about how good McCaffrey has been during training camp. However, after participating in full on Wednesday, he was then limited, and new reports state that he didnât practice on Friday at all.
According to Ari Meirov, McCaffrey suffered a calf injury on Thursday. His status is questionable for the 49ersâ season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. This is not what the team wants to hear, knowing how impactful McCaffrey is for this offense. The player himself just stated that he is ready to play, however, it remains to be seen if he will have a 100% of his snaps, or if Shanahan will be more careful with him.
Brian Robinson Jr.âs trade might prove to be crucial
The 49ers acquired Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders. That might end up being one of the best moves in the offseason if McCaffrey doesnât heal well. Robinson has been a starter in the NFL for years. While he is not McCaffrey, he does run well and has pass-catching ability.

Brian Robinson Jr. #8 of the Washington Commanders looks on prior to the NFC Championship Game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on January 26, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
His impact might be needed sooner rather than later given McCaffreyâs injury. However, it might be somewhat comforting for the team to know that if CMC is out or limited, they now have a very solid backup to rely on.

see also
49ers GM gives confusing statement regarding availability of Brock Purdyâs key weapon for Week 1
The 49ers are as injury-plagued as a team can be
The NFL is a contact sport, hence, injuries are always a part of the game. However, the 49ers are in a class of their own when it comes to bad luck. Only this offseason, theyâve dealt with plenty of injuries.
This has become a common thing, every year theyâre missing players due to big injuries. Now, they at least made moves in the offseason to have contingency plans when injuries inevitably arrive.





