Christian McCaffrey joins Brandon Aiyuk in winning Week 1 award

The 49ers' season-opening win over the Steelers was arguably the most impressive of Week 1, making it no surprise that their players have received awards for their performances. Brandon Aiyuk was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week, and Christian McCaffrey also claimed well-deserved recognition, the running back voted the FedEx Ground Player of […]

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Sep 10, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) leaps over Pittsburgh Steelers safety Keanu Neal (31) while running with the ball during the first half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

The 49ers' season-opening win over the Steelers was arguably the most impressive of Week 1, making it no surprise that their players have received awards for their performances.

Brandon Aiyuk was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week, and Christian McCaffrey also claimed well-deserved recognition, the running back voted the FedEx Ground Player of Week 1.

That honor came as a result of a 152-yard rushing day for McCaffrey against the Steelers, the highlight of which being a stunning 65-yard scamper for a touchdown early in the third quarter of the 49ers' 30-7 victory.

That marked McCaffrey's sixth Week 1 rushing touchdown of his career, trailing only Josh Jacobs (7) among active players.

Including the playoffs last season, McCaffrey had four games of 100 yards rushing for the 49ers.

Early indications are that tally should increase significantly in what could be a special season for the former eighth overall pick. With what he can do as a receiving back on top of his skills as a runner, this likely won't be the last award he receives during the 2023 campaign.

Featured Image Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports