Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers’ star running back, sustained what appears to be a PCL injury during their 35-10 loss to the Bills on Sunday Night Football last night. This injury would likely result in his season-ending absence. Given the injury-plagued nature of the past few seasons, it is fair to ask whether CMC will contemplate retirement following this season. This is a PROJECTION, not a REPORT!

McCaffrey When Healthy 

McCaffrey may be one of the most exceptional running backs in the history of the game when he is at full health. A season ago, he secured the title of Offensive Player of the Year and placed third in the MVP voting, having amassed over 2,000 total yards and 20 total touchdowns. He has accumulated over 1,000 yards in rushing and over 500 yards in receiving in every season in which he has competed in the NFL, with the exception of his inaugural year. His capacity to intercept passes from the backfield is what renders him such a formidable opponent for opposing defenses. McCaffrey, a two-time All-Pro, has demonstrated his capabilities on the field when he is in good health. However, his health has been a consistent source of concern in recent months.

McCaffrey’s Injury History 

Since 2020, McCaffrey has missed 36 games, despite the fact that he has played more complete seasons than not.In 2020, he was unable to perform for the Panthers due to three separate injuries that obliterated him: a high ankle sprain that resulted in his absence from six games, a shoulder injury that resulted in his absence from four games, and a thigh glute strain that resulted in his absence from four additional games.

In 2021, he played in only seven games and sustained two injuries: a hamstring strain that resulted in him missing five games and an ankle injury in week 12 that rendered him ineligible for the remainder of the season. Despite his complete health in 2022 and 2023, he was struck by a series of severe injuries this season. Achilles tendonitis in both legs necessitated his absence for the first nine weeks of the season, and he recently sustained a new PCL injury that is expected to conclude his season after only four games.

Despite the fact that none of these injuries were severe enough to alter the course of one’s career, the cumulative impact of five injuries that necessitated him to miss games since 2020 was significant.Although he has the potential to be one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, he is already 28 years old. Eventually, it is necessary to heed to one’s body and retire. Do you anticipate that McCaffrey will retire?