Seattle Seahawks fans shouldn't expect Christian McCaffrey's back issue to keep him out of Saturday's pivotal Week 18 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. The running back appeared uncomfortable late in Sunday night's win over the Chicago Bears and did not practice on Tuesday.
"It's just stiff," head coach Kyle Shanahan said.
Shanahan noted that McCaffrey had battled the issue in a previous game.
"Hadn't heard anything about it since, so it might have stiffened up in the game," Shanahan added. "I know it was sore just from Sunday night, so that's why we got him on here (listed as not practicing) today."
McCaffrey, however, does not seem worried about the setback and sounds like he expects to suit up for the regular-season finale.
When asked if the back issue could be serious, McCaffrey bluntly responded, "No, not serious."
The stakes are high entering Saturday's clash with the Seahawks. The winner will not only capture the NFC West title but also secure the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs, including home-field advantage throughout the postseason.
Having McCaffrey in the lineup could be pivotal for the 49ers' chances of emerging victorious.
"It means a lot," McCaffrey said of the Week 18 clash. "It's a huge game for us, obviously, this week, and our team's intent and focus is to get better today and show up ready to roll on Saturday."