San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey completed the entire offseason program without injury concerns after bilateral Achilles tendinitis and a knee injury limited him to just four games in 2024.
McCaffrey’s health represents a crucial development for the 49ers’ 2025 season. The former NFL Offensive Player of the Year missed the first eight games with Achilles issues and the final five games with a posterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee.
“Being fully transparent, obviously last year didn’t go the way I wanted. Having this time off has allowed me to start from scratch and have the time where I can build a base again,” McCaffrey said.
The 49ers posted a 6-11 record during McCaffrey’s injury-plagued season. He managed only 202 rushing yards, 146 receiving yards, and zero touchdowns in his limited appearances.
San Francisco’s offensive statistics demonstrate McCaffrey’s importance to the team’s success. The 49ers are 27-10 with McCaffrey in the lineup since acquiring him in 2022, averaging 27.2 points per game compared to 5-9 without him at 24.9 points per game.
Unlike veteran teammates George Kittle and Trent Williams, who limited their participation during organized team activities, McCaffrey took part in all drills including 11-on-11 scrimmages. His full participation allowed him to rebuild timing with quarterback Brock Purdy and the offensive line.
“He is a psycho in a good way and so he does everything imaginable every single day,” coach Kyle Shanahan said. “This year he is healthy, so he is right back to being who he is always been.”
Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak emphasized McCaffrey’s central role in the team’s offensive plans. The running back signed a two-year, $38 million extension before the 2024 season but was derailed by injuries shortly after training camp began.
McCaffrey traveled to Germany in September 2024 to consult with specialists about his Achilles condition. His knee injury occurred during a December game against Buffalo, effectively ending his season after showing signs of improvement.