TAMPA, Fla. — Christian McCaffrey felt physically strong during his season debut, although he plans to review game footage before evaluating his performance. The prominent running back for the San Francisco 49ers made his long-awaited return after being sidelined for the first part of the season due to an Achilles injury. In the 49ers’ close 23-20 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, McCaffrey accumulated 39 rushing yards on 13 carries and snagged six receptions for 68 yards.
Expressing his elation at being back, McCaffrey remarked, “I’m just happy I’m here. That was a long journey and a lot of long days, so it feels good to win, and it feels good to just play in a football game again.” Last season, he was awarded the AP Offensive Player of the Year but had been out since early September. The game marked the 49ers’ (now 5-4) second consecutive victory, a notable achievement for the team this season, culminating in a last-second field goal by Jake Moody that sealed the win.
McCaffrey shared insights about managing his emotions during the game, stating, “I try to feel emotions as they come. I don’t really play anything. I have my routine. It’s all about my body and making sure the warmup’s on point.” He emphasized the privilege of being able to play football after being away due to injury, noting that few desire to be on the field more than he does. Feeling the intensity that comes from competing in the NFL was significant for him.
Brock Purdy, the 49ers quarterback, had an impressive outing, throwing for 353 yards and two touchdowns. He executed a crucial play with a 30-yard lob pass to McCaffrey along the right sideline, helping to set up one of his touchdown throws. Purdy praised McCaffrey’s contributions, especially noting how his presence creates opportunities for others: “Defenses have to scheme that up, they have to acknowledge him, which can open up some other guys.” He added that McCaffrey’s tenacity can inspire the entire team and ignite their momentum.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan echoed the positive sentiments regarding McCaffrey’s performance. “He came out great, which was huge,” he noted, referring to the challenge of managing McCaffrey’s playing time. Shanahan admitted the team might have pushed it a bit in the second half but was pleased with their approach, especially in the fourth quarter when McCaffrey remained on the field.
In total, the 49ers managed to rush for 72 yards, with McCaffrey leading the team significantly in carries. Other contributors included Purdy, Deebo Samuel, and Jordan Mason, with each having fewer attempts. McCaffrey was also heavily involved in the passing game, being targeted seven times, which was second only to wide receiver Jauan Jennings, who recorded seven receptions for 93 yards on 11 targets.
“I never go in expecting anything, but when my number is called I like to be out there,” McCaffrey stated, reflecting on his readiness and the physicality of the game after such a long layoff. As he contemplated the aftermath of his return, he felt surprisingly good and was curious to see how he would feel the following day.