SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — San Francisco 49ers All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey is set to make his season debut on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after spending the first half of the season recovering from Achilles tendinitis. McCaffrey described his time on the sideline as being in a 'dark' place due to physical pain and the frustration of not being able to play.
McCaffrey returned to practice on Monday and has successfully completed four days of work without any setbacks, paving the way for his return. Although still listed as questionable while on injured reserve, he is expected to be activated on Saturday.
Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that McCaffrey will be taken off injured reserve and should be ready to play on Sunday, barring any unforeseen circumstances. However, the injury news is not all positive for the 49ers, as star defensive end Nick Bosa is also listed as questionable after sustaining a hip injury in practice.
San Francisco will be without starting cornerback Charvarius Ward, who has been away from the team following the tragic death of his 1-year-old daughter. The team showed support by attending a memorial service held in Dallas.
McCaffrey has been dealing with Achilles tendinitis since early August, missing most of training camp before returning briefly before the season opener. He was placed on injured reserve in September and spent seven weeks resting and rehabilitating, including receiving treatment in Germany.
The 49ers are hopeful that McCaffrey's return will provide a much-needed boost in the second half of the season. Despite Jordan Mason's solid performance in McCaffrey's absence, the team has struggled offensively, particularly in the red zone and passing game.
McCaffrey, who led the NFL in yards from scrimmage last season, is confident in his recovery and has no concerns about his injury going forward. With several players listed as questionable or ruled out for the upcoming game, the 49ers will rely on McCaffrey's return to help improve their performance.
NOTES: DT Kevin Givens and WR Chris Conley will miss the game due to injuries. WR Deebo Samuel, S Malik Mustapha, and OL Jon Feliciano are listed as questionable. DL Yetur Gross-Matos will not be activated off injured reserve this week.
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