49ers limit McCaffrey's reps to keep him healthy

Christian McCaffrey is focused on ensuring the 2025 season resembles his successful 2023 campaign rather than his injury-plagued 2024 season. Last year, bilateral Achilles tendinitis caused him to miss the first eight games, and a subsequent posterior cruciate ligament injury ended his season in December after just three appearances.

The 49ers have implemented a tailored plan to maintain McCaffrey's health for the season opener and beyond. This includes strategic rest days, such as skipping Sunday's practice before full-pad sessions, and limited participation in early-week drills. McCaffrey followed this regimen during the team's first week of training camp, mirroring the approach that contributed to his 2023 Offensive Player of the Year award.

Coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged McCaffrey's frustration with reduced activity but emphasized the necessity to "protect him from himself." McCaffrey, known for his intense training ethic, expressed trust in the team's plan, stating he'll "do everything I can every day to get better." Similar load management is being applied to key players Nick Bosa and Trent Williams.

McCaffrey enters camp fully healthy after offseason rehabilitation and a significant personal milestone—the birth of his daughter Colette, which he described as "life-changing" and credited his wife for supporting his football commitments.

Meanwhile, receiver Ricky Pearsall returned from the PUP list for his first practice but was limited to eight snaps in team drills. His comeback was offset by veteran Jauan Jennings exiting with a calf injury, potentially related to a spring issue. Receivers Jacob Cowing and Renardo Green remain sidelined with hamstring injuries but are expected back around the August 16 preseason game.

Quarterback Brock Purdy resumed full duties after an excused absence for personal reasons, taking all first-team snaps without issue. Shanahan confirmed Purdy's return was "all good news" and that he "didn't miss a beat."