Christian McCaffrey Out For Week 1, Leaving Niners Fans and Fantasy Managers In Distress

Published|Updated

How different will the San Francisco 49ers' game plan look without Christian McCaffrey?

Bad news for fantasy fans and Niners faithful: Christian McCaffrey was downgraded to OUT for Monday night's matchup against the New York Jets. 

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, CMC is in danger of missing Week 2's matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

Backup running back Jordan Mason is slated to overtake CMC's carries against a sturdy Jets defense.

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey suffered an injury against the Cleveland Browns.

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey out for Week 1. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Last season, CMC amassed 2,023 total yards of offense and 21 touchdowns.

For a player with McCaffrey's impact, his absence could pose an offensive issue for the Niners. As Niners coach Kyle Shanahan previously shared, the bulk of the offensive game plan runs through McCaffrey.

Coming into Monday's game, McCaffrey was listed as a ‘game-time' decision related to an ongoing calf issue. 

San Francisco starts their season without McCaffrey but still boasts a reliable core of players.

Star Niners wideout Deebo Samuel should also be expected to receive more of a role in the backfield with McCaffrey out.

Fifth-year speedster Brandon Aiyuk will help pick up the slack in CMC's absence after signing a four-year, $120 million contract. 

Fantasy football managers with CMC on their rosters must prioritize adding Jordan Mason to their roster. Slated third on the Niners' RB depth chart is Isaac Guerendo, who may be worth keeping an eye on.

Additionally, if Braelon Allen from the Jets is somehow still available, he's definitely worth a last-minute add.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 11: Christian McCaffrey #23 of the San Francisco 49ers walks off the field during Super Bowl LVIII against the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images)

Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela

Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com