SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers made a tough decision by placing All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey on injured reserve due to his lingering calf and Achilles tendon injuries. This move, announced on Saturday, means McCaffrey will have to sit out at least four more games, having already missed the season opener. The earliest he can return is for a Thursday night game in Seattle on Oct. 10.

McCaffrey sustained his injuries early in training camp, which caused him to miss four weeks of practice before making a limited return last week. However, after experiencing pain following a practice session on Thursday, he was once again sidelined.

Despite McCaffrey’s absence, the Niners managed to secure a victory over the New York Jets with Jordan Mason stepping up as a strong backup. Mason’s performance included 28 carries for 147 yards and a touchdown, and he is expected to start in the upcoming game against Minnesota on Sunday.

San Francisco will now heavily depend on Mason, who has shown promise as a backup. The team also has fourth-round rookie Isaac Guerendo and Patrick Taylor Jr. on the active roster to provide additional support in McCaffrey’s absence.

In light of these changes, the Niners have elevated safety Tracy Walker III from the practice squad for the upcoming game against Minnesota.

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