League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

49ers plan to limit Christian McCaffrey's workload in 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 7:23 PM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

49ers plan to limit Christian McCaffrey's workload in 2026 season

Summary

The San Francisco 49ers are set to reduce All-Pro Christian McCaffrey's workload despite his preference to maintain it. Head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the need for load management after McCaffrey's 450-touch season in 2025. McCaffrey played 83% of offensive snaps last season, but injuries to other stars added pressure on his usage. The team hopes younger running backs like Kaelon Black can help share the load, aiming to keep McCaffrey healthier and more explosive in the upcoming season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•McCaffrey handled 450 touches in the 2025 season and playoffs.
•Shanahan intends to involve younger backs to reduce McCaffrey's usage.
•McCaffrey missed 13 games in the previous two seasons due to injuries.
•Kaelon Black was drafted to provide depth at running back.
•49ers aim for a fresher McCaffrey to increase his explosiveness.

Latest Updates

7:23 PMYahoo Sports — The 49ers vow to reduce workload for Christian McCaffrey even if he doesn't want it

What they're saying

"
Perhaps the only person around the San Francisco 49ers not worried about the heavy workload that All-Pro Christian McCaffrey handled last season is McCaffrey himself. While Kyle Shanahan and the rest of the coaching staff have expressed a need to reduce McCaffrey's usage after his 450-touch campaign in the 2025 regular season and playoffs, McCaffrey doesn't see a need for load management. “I’ve been dealing with those questions for nine years it feels like,” McCaffrey said.
— Yahoo Sportsby JOSH DUBOW

Related Teams & Leagues

San Francisco 49ers NFL Football