Christian McCaffrey and Kyle Juszczyk have shared the field since 2022, when the running back joined the San Francisco 49ers. Juszczyk, who has been part of the team since 2017, briefly parted ways with the franchise in March before re-signing on a two-year deal worth approximately $8 million just eight days later.
McCaffrey, meanwhile, is preparing for a strong return after a season-ending injury just four games into the 2024 campaign. The three-time Pro Bowl running back is now entering the second year of his two-year, $38 million contract signed in June 2024.
During the offseason, Juszczyk took part in the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. In a conversation with The Athletic’s Vic Tafur, he praised McCaffrey’s impact and offered high hopes for his return.
“Christian is arguably the best player in the NFL,” Juszczyk said. “He was the offensive player of the year two years ago. He changes everything, and he looks incredible. He looks so healthy, he looks so explosive.”
McCaffrey’s Return Comes Amid High Expectations
Following a Super Bowl LVIII appearance under head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy, the 49ers entered 2024 with high hopes. However, injuries to key players, including McCaffrey, derailed their season, resulting in a 6-11 record and a fourth-place finish in the NFC West.
Despite the shortened 2024 season, McCaffrey’s previous contributions remain impressive. In 31 games over three seasons, he started 30, racking up 2,407 rushing yards, 20 rushing touchdowns, and 11 receiving touchdowns.
Durability Concerns Continue to Linger
Throughout his career, McCaffrey has faced numerous injuries—including PCL, Achilles, and calf issues—which have sparked ongoing concerns about his long-term durability. As reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, one anonymous NFL executive voiced skepticism about McCaffrey’s future.
“He’s a great player, but he’s always had durability issues, even in college,” the executive said. “He’s an elite trainer and takes great care of himself. He’s just not a big body and will lose a step eventually.”
Still, ESPN ranked McCaffrey at No. 5 in their list of top 10 NFL running backs heading into 2025. As the 49ers aim for another shot at a Super Bowl, much of their offensive success could hinge on whether McCaffrey can stay healthy and perform at his peak.
With his explosiveness reportedly returning and the support of teammates like Juszczyk, all eyes will be on McCaffrey as he looks to make a statement in the 2025 NFL season.
