ESPN insider hints at Christian McCaffrey’s role in 49ers return

The San Francisco 49ers have taken a cautious approach with star running back Christian McCaffrey's recovery from Achilles tendinitis, which has kept him sidelined all season. On Monday, McCaffrey returned to practice, raising hopes that he might suit up this weekend against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

With his return imminent, questions remain about McCaffrey's workload. Last season, he shouldered a significant offensive load on his way to being named NFL Offensive Player of the Year. Given his extended absence and fans' concerns about a potential setback, could the 49ers ease him back into action?

"Can he feel like he can go make an impact and handle the volume that we've put on him? If so, we won't hesitate to play him," general manager John Lynch recently said.

ESPN's Dan Graziano discussed McCaffrey's fantasy football outlook. He suggested that fans should expect him to resume a full workload upon returning from his lengthy absence.

"If Christian McCaffrey plays for the 49ers this week, start him without any reservations," Dan Graziano wrote. "Sometimes you want to wait a week when a guy comes off an injury after not playing in a while, but Kyle Shanahan's history with McCaffrey tells us that if his star running back is available, he is basically going to get all of the backfield work."

Graziano expressed confidence in the 49ers' approach to McCaffrey's recovery, emphasizing that the team wouldn't risk his long-term health if they weren't certain he was ready, suggesting fans can set their minds at ease.

"The Niners wouldn't bring McCaffrey back from Achilles tendinitis if they weren't sure he could handle his normal workload," Graziano added.

The 49ers have three more practices scheduled this week before their Week 10 road game against the Buccaneers on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.