The San Francisco 49ers’ pursuit of Super Bowl success faced a setback on Tuesday.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan announced that last year’s Offensive Player of the Year, Christian McCaffrey, will be sidelined for a “couple weeks” due to a calf injury.
McCaffrey dealt with injuries, playing in only 10 games throughout 2020 and 2021.
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Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers carries the ball against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium Dec. 17, 2023, in Glendale, Ariz. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
The 49ers’ season is still five weeks away, giving McCaffrey enough time to recover. However, Shanahan confirmed McCaffrey will not be participating in the preseason.
With star veterans often skipping preseason snaps, it’s uncertain if McCaffrey would have played at all. Since 2019, he has only participated in two preseason matchups.
Additionally, McCaffrey is featured on the cover of Madden 25, prompting fans to worry about the infamous Madden Curse making a comeback.
Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers before a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field Nov. 23, 2023, in Seattle. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
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In earlier years, athletes featured on the cover often experienced turbulent seasons after their appearance. Notable cases include Dante Culpepper (2001), Donovan McNabb (2006), Shaun Alexander (2007), and Vince Young (2008).
However, since Rob Gronkowski was on the cover back in 2016, the so-called “curse” has not shown its influence.
The 49ers also faced additional setbacks, as backup running back Elijah Mitchell sustained a hamstring injury, and rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall exacerbated a shoulder injury.
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey celebrates after scoring against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half in Santa Clara, Calif., Oct. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)
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Last season, McCaffrey led the league with a career-high 1,459 rushing yards and recorded 21 total touchdowns, which also set the NFL standard.
The 49ers are set to kick off their season on September 9, facing the New York Jets on “Monday Night Football.”
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