NFL insider provides update on 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey’s calf injury

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey appeared on Thursday's practice participation report with a calf injury, sparking concern among The Faithful just days before the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. McCaffrey was listed as a limited participant, meaning he did not take part in the whole practice session.

"I will say this cautiously," NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said on Friday morning. "Here is what I would tell you: I do not get the sense, based on the conversations I've had so far, that there are alarm bells going off about Christian McCaffrey at this point. If there is any player you are going to take precautions with, if he feels something in practice, it's the guy who's arguably your best player and missed most of last season because of a variety of different ailments."

While Pelissero's words provide reassurance, fans' concerns are understandable. McCaffrey suffered a calf injury during training camp last year that developed into bilateral Achilles tendinitis, forcing him to miss the first eight games of the season. He appeared in just four contests, struggling to regain his 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year form, before a PCL injury sidelined him for the final five games.

Pelissero acknowledged the potential risks, given McCaffrey's injury history.

"We also know that calf injuries can be tricky," Pelissero added. "At times, they are precursors to Achilles injuries. McCaffrey had issues with both his Achilles last year. Again, I do not get the sense that this is DEFCON 1 at this point, but the 49ers will be back out on the field this afternoon. Kyle Shanahan will address the media. We'll get a better sense about what, if anything, McCaffrey is going to be available to do when they kick off the season on Sunday against the Seahawks."

The 49ers are scheduled to practice at 12:35 p.m. on Friday. Head coach Kyle Shanahan will hold his final press conference before Week 1 approximately an hour later, when he is expected to provide the latest update on McCaffrey's status.