There was some concern when running back Christian McCaffrey did not participate in Monday's San Francisco 49ers training camp practice. However, the team quickly informed reporters that the veteran running back was dealing with some "tightness," which didn't sound overly concerning.
The 49ers gave McCaffrey the day off as a precaution, managing his workload to ensure the tightness doesn't develop into a more significant setback.
Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak spoke to reporters after Monday's practice and was asked if there was any concern surrounding McCaffrey's status.
"No, just managing," Kubiak said. "A little sore, but he's doing fine, so just kind of managing him as we go."
Kubiak stressed that this training camp is not much different for McCaffrey than previous ones. Still, the 49ers are carefully managing the running back's workload as he prepares for his 10th NFL season.
"Christian always kind of has his rep count in any camp," Kubiak said. "You guys are aware of the adjustments we made to our schedule to kind of keep them from having too many off days."
The 49ers' training camp has definitely been different this year. Up to this point, the team has generally followed a schedule featuring two practice days, followed by a lighter jog-through day, a more intense practice, and then a day off.
"But, in terms of his rep load, we're right on track where we want to be," Kubiak said of McCaffrey. "And he's a veteran player, so you've got to monitor him and get him ready for the first week."
Injured 49ers running backs nearing returns
Kubiak acknowledged that injuries to younger running backs Kaelon Black and Jordan James have complicated matters. However, he added that both players appear to be close to returning.
Additionally, Isaac Guerendo, who is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, appears to be making progress after sustaining a pectoral injury.
For now, their absences have created opportunities for other running backs to take on additional practice reps.
"Those guys will get back out there," Kubiak said. "They're not far away. But it's given guys opportunities to get better, too. You talk about guys like Patrick Taylor, Sincere McCormick, and Khalil [Herbert], who we brought in. It gives us a chance to get [WR] Deebo [Samuel] in there a little bit and get some touches.
"So, anytime guys are out, it lets guys step up and gives them opportunities. But we're looking forward to having those guys back, too, and we want to get them out there and keep getting them better."
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