The team has faced challenges in solidifying the return game during McCloud's absence, underscoring the significance of the potential availability of this key special-teams player for the playoffs.
San Francisco has secured the NFC's top seed and home-field advantage, which means McCloud won't be needed until the weekend of January 20, at the earliest.
McCloud has appeared in 11 games this season, contributing with 22 punt returns for 186 yards (8.5 average) and 10 kickoff returns for 225 yards (22.5 average).