According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Trent Williams isn't the only key player expected to return to practice for the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday. The NFL insider reports that running back Christian McCaffrey, who missed most of training camp and did not participate in any preseason games due to a calf strain, is also set to return.
More good 49ers news: Pro-Bowl RB Christian McCaffrey, who missed most of training camp with a strained calf, is expected to return to practice today, per source. pic.twitter.com/pmAI3rjRa5
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 3, 2024
McCaffrey has been eager to rejoin his teammates and is preparing to practice ahead of the team's Week 1 matchup against the New York Jets. Despite his absence from training camp, his availability for the season opener was never in question, as the injury was not deemed serious enough to sideline him for a regular-season game.
"Yeah, I feel great," McCaffrey said shortly after the injury. "Very cautionary stuff. If we had a game, I would play, but just trying to be smart right now. But still training, still getting a bunch of work in, so that come Week 1, we're ready to roll."
McCaffrey played 81 percent of the 49ers' offensive snaps last season, and being sidelined for an extended period has been challenging for the star running back.
"He always is super determined," fullback Kyle Juszczyk said last month of McCaffrey. "He's always striving for more. It really is never enough for him. You can see it's killing him not to be out there."
McCaffrey is coming off an impressive 2023 campaign in which he totaled 2,023 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns, earning NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors. His return will significantly boost a 49ers team with Super Bowl aspirations.
With McCaffrey, Williams, and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk back in the fold, the 49ers will return to full strength just in time for Week 1.