The 49ers have released a major Christian McCaffrey injury update with the running back still yet to play this season due to Achilles issues.
The defending NFC champions have been without McCaffrey through their first eight games, as the 28-year-old is reportedly dealing with Achilles tendinitis in both of his legs.
On Monday, the team announced that his 21-day practice window has finally opened and designated his return from injured reserve.
The update means McCaffrey has a ‘real chance’ to play this weekend, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
McCaffrey was seen on the practice field on Monday for the 49ers, as he broke down the huddle for his team.
In another clip from NBC Sports Bay Area on X, McCaffrey could be seen jogging and changing speeds.
Last week, head coach Kyle Shanahan said McCaffrey was progressing well towards playing in Week 10 after the team’s bye.
‘He’s had no setbacks, so it looks like we’re on track,’ he said.
‘He’s going to hit it hard this week while we’re gone and kind of simulate some practice stuff for himself.’
McCaffrey, who played just 10 games between 2020-21 for the Panthers due to injuries, missed most of training camp this past summer.
He was ruled out not long before the first game of the season against the Jets and then suffered a setback during practice on September 12.
The two-time first-team All-Pro went to Germany for treatment that month.
Achilles tendinitis is described by the Mayo Clinic as ‘an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone.’
Most cases can be treated with at-home care, while more serious cases can lead to Achilles ruptures that might require surgery.
