Christian McCaffrey could be out for the season after suffering a knee injury during Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills, a crushing 10-35 loss for the 49ers. McCaffrey already missed the first eight weeks of the season due to Achilles tendinitis in both of his legs. This latest setback could result in a frustrating situation for the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year and his team.
McCaffrey was explosive in the first quarter, racking 53 yards with seven carries and two catches for 14 yards. As 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy remarked post-match, “He (McCaffrey) looked great, hitting the holes hard, bouncing off guys, and making some great plays.”
During the second quarter, McCaffrey rushed the middle for an 18-yard gain until Buffalo Bills safety Taylor Rapp tripped him, forcing a hard landing on his right knee. McCaffrey was briefly pulled aside for inspection and was later returned to the field. The next play ended his night early.
With 11:23 remaining in the second quarter, McCaffrey began his run to the right and upfield. Almost immediately, he slowed after his left leg seemed to buckle. Instead of continuing his run, McCaffrey chose to slide, avoiding contact. Afterward, he limped to the blue injury tent and spent a few minutes there before being sent to the locker room for further evaluation.
At the start of the third quarter, McCaffrey was ruled out for the remainder of the game. In his absence, backup running back Jordan Mason stepped up, finishing with 13 carries for 78 yards. Rookie Isaac Guerendo also contributed, logging four rushes for 19 yards and scoring the only touchdown of the night for the 49ers.
As of now, McCaffrey’s return is “questionable.” San Francisco’s head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed concern that McCaffrey had injured his PCL, which could sideline him for several weeks. McCaffrey is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday. More information regarding the severity of his injury will be released thereafter.
The 49ers, already plagued by injuries, could face a significant setback with McCaffrey’s absence. The team currently holds a 5-7 record and is trying to break free from a three-game losing streak. They’ll be looking to turn things around in week 14’s matchup against the Chicago Bears. The 49ers have not been able to replicate the same success seen last season, and their chances of making the playoffs are growing slim. Fans can only hope the team stays resilient in the weeks ahead.
