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James Brizuela is a contributing sports and entertainment writer located in Los Angeles. His focus is on Comics, Comic Book Movies, Video Games, NFL, and MMA. He has in-depth knowledge of the NFL as a whole, having been a fan for over 30 years, and covering the sports over the last six years. He also knows the ins and outs of the comics world, becoming an editor while covering everything DC and beyond on Comic Book Resources, Giant Freakin Robot, and Inside the Magic. James joined Newsweek in March 2024, having previously written NFL content for Sports Illustrated. He is a graduate of the University of California, Riverside. You can get in touch with James by emailing, [email protected]. You can find him at X @james_brizuela.
James Brizuela
Contributing Writer
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San Francisco 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey has been dealing with a calf injury that began to worry the entire NFL-loving world. After news of his injury broke, it appeared there were conflicting reports about whether or not he would be healthy enough to take the field.
More news: Vikings’ Final Injury Report Is Huge News for JJ McCarthy
McCaffrey spoke about his own health, stating that he felt “great” and was ready to play, but 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan made it sound as if the star back was dealing with something a bit more significant.
Shanahan told reporters that he had a “questionable” concern about McCaffrey being healthy enough to play on Sunday.
Now, the 49ers have received the biggest indication that McCaffrey will take the field.
No RB added for the #49ers. WR Russell Gage and LB Curtis Robinson were elevated from the practice squad. Another indication they’re hopeful on Christian McCaffrey.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) September 6, 2025
Per multiple reports, the 49ers elevated wide receiver Russell Gage and linebacker Curtis Robinson. The team did not elevate any running back, which points to McCaffrey more than likely taking the field when they take on the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1.
More news: Chiefs Get Brutal Xavier Worthy Injury Update
McCaffrey missed the majority of the 2024 season as he was diagnosed Achilles tendonitis, which kept him sidelined for months. Following his return to play in November, he would then suffer a PCL injury that placed him on injured reserve in December, ending his season.
McCaffrey was set to enter the 2025 season with a clean bill of health, but he popped up on the injury report ahead of Week 1, leading many to believe that the injury bug had once again struck him. However, the 49ers’ elevations for the Seahawks matchup point to good news for the star running back.
The 49ers need all the help they can get, as the team is still dealing with many injuries to offensive stars, hence the elevation of Gage.
It is not yet confirmed that McCaffrey will play on Sunday, but the 49ers not elevating a running back is as much insurance as is needed.
For more ont he 49ers and NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.
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