The oblique injury for San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey “is more of a pain-tolerance thing,” according to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, and the team reportedly received more good news on its other stars on Tuesday ahead of Week 7.
For the 49ers’ game on Monday night against the Minnesota Vikings, Maiocco stated that “it is not out of the question” that Deebo Samuel (shoulder), Trent Williams (ankle), and McCaffrey will be available.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed none of the Niners’ stars are dealing with “long-term” injuries.
McCaffrey, a two-time Pro Bowler, was limited to 36 offensive snaps in San Francisco’s 19-17 loss to the Cleveland Browns. He had 52 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown before exiting.
Following the game, head coach Kyle Shanahan informed reporters that the team did not know exactly when the injury happened.
“He mentioned about four possible plays he thought he could have done it on,” Shanahan said. “But we’re not sure which one he did.”
McCaffrey has been electric in his first full season in the Bay Area. He’s the NFL’s leading rusher (553 yards) with 23 receptions for 177 yards, and he has found the end zone nine total times.
Given his past performance, the 27-year-old has little chance of taking home the trophy, but he has at least elevated himself into the MVP discussion.
Due to his struggles with injuries this season, Samuel has not recorded a reception in two of San Francisco’s last three games. His 50.3 receiving yards per game are on pace to be the second-lowest of his career.
Fortunately for the Niners, Brandon Aiyuk has emerged as a strong No. 1 target for Brock Purdy. As a result, Samuel’s injuries haven’t affected the passing game like they would’ve in recent years.
There’s no such protection for Williams, who continues to be an elite blocker at 35. Pro Football Focus’ Gordon McGuinness named him as the NFL’s best left tackle through the first quarter of the season.
The 49ers have their bye in Week 9. The team is likely looking forward to McCaffrey, Samuel, and Williams having a little more time to recover before the playoff push gets underway, even if they do not miss any time before then.
