When Is Christian McCaffrey Coming Back - Fantasy Football Injury Return Update for Week 9

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) will remain in San Francisco during the team's Week 9 bye to participate in "simulated practice activities," according to head coach Kyle Shanahan on Monday.

When asked about McCaffrey's potential availability for his season debut in Week 10 against Tampa Bay, Shanahan responded, "It depends on how this week goes. He hasn’t experienced any setbacks, so everything looks promising. He plans to put in a lot of work this week while we’re away. If all goes well, we hope to have him back in practice next week."

McCaffrey has been out all season after straining his calf on August 6 and subsequently dealing with Achilles tendinitis in both legs. The latter injury is currently the main concern.

However, the running back appears to have made significant progress in recent weeks, and he will take another step forward by participating in on-field workouts during the 49ers' bye week. The idea is for McCaffrey to return in Week 10.

.@AdamSchefter says Christian McCaffrey is "poised" to be back Week 10 against the Buccaneers 👀 pic.twitter.com/y3uTlG1qbc

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) October 28, 2024

Once McCaffrey returns to the field, he will be an automatic start in fantasy leagues and should be viewed as a top-tier RB1.

His dynamic skill set and ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air make him one of the most versatile backs in the league. When healthy, McCaffrey has consistently been a focal point of the 49ers' offense, regularly commanding a high volume of touches and target share.

His return will not only bolster the team's ground game but also enhance the passing attack, as he has the potential to rack up significant receiving yards as well. Fantasy managers can confidently plug him into their lineups, knowing he has the upside to deliver elite production each week.

𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧: #49ers superstar RB Christian McCaffrey hasn’t had any setbacks in his recovery and is “poised” to make his debut in the team’s week 10 game against the #Buccaneers, per @AdamSchefter pic.twitter.com/pcCrq5yd4z

— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) October 28, 2024