Just four weeks after returning to the field, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is out again.
The 49ers head coach told reporters on Monday that McCaffrey suffered a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury during Sunday’s 35-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills and will be placed on injured reserve as a result. McCaffrey’s recovery is expected to take six weeks, meaning the rest of his season is in jeopardy.
Additionally, Jordan Mason – who took over as RB1 after McCaffrey left Sunday night’s game – goes on IR after suffering a high ankle sprain.
During the second quarter of Sunday night’s game, McCaffrey suddenly made a run after suffering a non-contact injury. He entered the blue medical tent moments later and then walked back to the locker room under his own power.
The 49ers initially ruled McCaffrey questionable to return before ruling him out before the start of the second half. After the game, Kyle Shanahan told reporters that McCaffrey’s PCL injury was “potentially” season-ending, but provided no further details.
With both McCaffrey and Mason out, rookie Isaac Guerendo will likely step in as San Francisco gets going again.
McCaffrey made his season debut in early November after missing the first eight games of the season due to Achilles tendonitis and a calf injury. Shortly after undergoing IR prior to week 2, McCaffrey flew to Germany to be treated by a specialist.
McCaffrey has played in four games since returning, collecting 50 carries and 202 yards, as well as 15 receptions for 146 yards. He was the leading rusher in his first three games with San Francisco.
The 49ers have fallen to a 5-7 record after Sunday’s loss and are at the bottom of the NFC West. McCaffrey’s return last month was a major boon for the team, but San Francisco has a slew of other problems that the reigning Offensive Player of the Year couldn’t solve alone. Injuries have also hampered the team’s performance, with several key players missing time this season.
