This was unexpected, but it has quickly thrown the fantasy football world into a bit of chaos.
Christian McCaffrey wasn’t on the San Francisco 49ers’ injury report on Wednesday.
But on Thursday, the ‘Niners had him listed as a limited participant.
Christian McCaffrey fantasy injury update
CMC was limited in Thursday’s practice with a calf injury, per the 49ers injury report.
It’s not clear whether he was hurt at the practice or beforehand, but he seemingly didn’t have the injury as of Wednesday.
Given that McCaffrey had Achilles tendinitis a season ago, a calf injury is not a good sign if it turns out to be in the same leg.
CMC was either a first- or second-round pick in fantasy football leagues, just like last season. If he’s out again from the outset, it’s a brutal beat for a second consecutive campaign.
MORE: Why Christian McCaffrey’s injury update is so concerning
Christian McCaffrey backups, handcuffs
The San Francisco 49ers traded for a new RB2 in late August, getting Brian Robinson Jr. from the Washington Commanders.
Robinson is CMC’s direct backup and handcuff for fantasy football.
Behind him is Isaac Guerendo. If McCaffrey missed time, Guerendo would likely see carries, too.
MORE: Fantasy RB handcuff rankings & depth charts
Waiver options to replace Christian McCaffrey
If McCaffrey ends up missing Week 1, it could be time to turn to the fantasy Week 1 waiver wire.
Notable RBs available in more than half of standard Yahoo leagues:
- Ollie Gordon, MIA
- Najee Harris, LAC
- Rachaad White, TB
- Dylan Sampson, CLE
The aforementioned Guerendo is also available in more than 80% of leagues.
You hopefully have someone on your bench better than these options to swap in for McCaffrey, but if not, Gordon is probably worth the best shot.
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