Christian McCaffrey injury update: Adam Schefter shares latest, reveals expected return date

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is yet to play this season and is reportedly suffering from bilateral Achilles tendonitis — meaning he has it in both legs. On Monday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter provided an update on McCaffrey’s recovery.

“So far, he has not had any setbacks during his recovery. I don’t want to jinx this, right? Knock on wood,” Schefter said. “He has looked strong, and right now, he’s poised to get back after their bye and play against the Buccaneers.”

McCaffrey reportedly went to Germany to receive treatment for his condition earlier this year. The three-time Pro Bowler can’t return soon enough for the 49ers. Last season, McCaffrey had a record year, tallying a league-high 1,459 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns.

The ground game wasn’t the only area where McCaffrey found success. He also hauled in 67 catches for 564 yards and seven scores. In light of McCaffrey’s current predicament and injury-riddled past, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the importance of protecting his star RB when he returns.

“We have to protect Christian from himself,” Shanahan said, per The Athletic. “He doesn’t like to ever come out no matter what the situation is and I do think that’s something we could protect him with more. When you are such a threat in the pass game, it’s a little bit different.

“But if he’s just taking the wear and tear with 20 carries and stuff every game – and he’s definitely good enough to do that and he has proved he can stay healthy – but you’d like to take some of that off of him and give it to other guys also.”

The 49ers are 4-4 this season without Christian McCaffrey, most recently defeating the Dallas Cowboys 30-24. In the win, Isaac Guerendo led the 49ers’ rushing attack, amassing 85 yards on 14 carries.

Although Guerendo had an excellent day, running back Jordan Mason has carried the 49ers’ rushing load in McCaffrey’s absence. Mason has a team-high 685 rushing yards, the third-most in the NFL. He’s also notched three touchdowns.

The 49ers will enjoy a bye this week before facing off against the Buccaneers at 1 p.m. ET on Nov. 10. The game will air live on FOX.