49ers' latest update on Christian McCaffrey injury suggests recent report may not be accurate
While Christian McCaffrey's absence from the San Francisco 49ers' season-opening win over the New York Jets came as a big surprise, it would not be a shock if his calf/Achilles injury keeps him out of Week 2 as well. In fact, recent reporting has suggested that is the likely scenario. Indeed, NFL Media's Ian Rapoport […]
While Christian McCaffrey's absence from the San Francisco 49ers' season-opening win over the New York Jets came as a big surprise, it would not be a shock if his calf/Achilles injury keeps him out of Week 2 as well.
In fact, recent reporting has suggested that is the likely scenario.
Indeed, NFL Media's Ian Rapoport said on 'Good Morning Football' on Wednesday that "it feels to me, just talking to people, that Christian McCaffrey is a long shot to play this week against the Minnesota Vikings".
However, the 49ers started their preparations for that encounter in Minneapolis with an encouraging sign on McCaffrey that indicates he has a better chance than believed.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan said in his Wednesday press conference that McCaffrey would be limited in practice.
Shanahan later revealed the 49ers would be going at half speed in that practice session given the tight turnaround from their Monday Night Football opener. That detail might lessen the significance of McCaffrey being involved in the eyes of some, but clearly not in the eyes of Shanahan.
"I take that as positive," Shanahan said of McCaffrey being limited rather than just out of practice entirely.
Shanahan also rejected any suggestion the 49ers could put McCaffrey on injured reserve with a designation to return to give him extra time to rest.
"No, I've never considered that," said Shanahan. "I was considering him to play last week. So definitely not thinking about four weeks off."
Three other players were set to be limited in practice.
Aaron Banks suffered a calf contusion against the Jets, while Jauan Jennings sustained an ankle injury, though he was able to re-enter the game.
All-Pro safety Talanoa Hufanga (knee) was inactive for the season opener but will hope to make his return from a torn ACL on Sunday after also being listed as limited in Shanahan's preliminary injury report.
Defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos (knee) and linebacker Dee Winters (ankle) remain on the sidelines having missed the victory over New York.
