League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Injuries

Christian McCaffrey misses practice due to muscle tightness, says Shanahan

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 6:04 PM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Christian McCaffrey misses practice due to muscle tightness, says Shanahan

Summary

Christian McCaffrey, running back for the San Francisco 49ers, is absent from practice due to minor muscle tightness. Head coach Kyle Shanahan clarified that the injury is not related to any contract issues and emphasized the team's cautious approach to avoid further complications. The tightness arose shortly after other running backs secured significant contract extensions, prompting speculation about McCaffrey's own future financial arrangements. The 49ers are scheduled to start their regular season in the NFL's Australia game against the Los Angeles Rams on September 10.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•McCaffrey dealing with minor muscle tightness.
•Shanahan rules out contract issues as the cause for absence.
•McCaffrey led the NFL in touches last season.
•49ers begin the regular season against the Rams on September 10.

Latest Updates

6:04 PMYahoo Sports — Christian McCaffrey returns to 49ers practice
1:30 AMYahoo Sports — What's wrong with Christian McCaffrey?
10:45 PMYahoo Sports — Christian McCaffrey injury update: Shanahan explains why RB's missing practice

What they're saying

"
49ers' star Christian McCaffrey continues to deal with an injury. Kyle Shanahan clears the air on the star's absence as contract speculation grows.
— Yahoo Sports