San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) watches injured from the sidelines in the second quarter against the New York Jets at Levi's Stadium. - David Gonzales/Imagn Images
On Monday, Nov. 4, San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan announced the team has officially opened up the practice window for two players. Running back Christian McCaffrey and offensive lineman Jon Feliciano will return to practice. Here is a look at what this means for the 49ers as they look to take control of the NFC West.
Christian McCaffrey Returns to Practice
The 49ers have officially opened the practice window for McCaffrey, who was seen at practice. McCaffrey missed the entire first half of the season with achilles tendinitis in both legs. McCaffrey has been dealing with the injury since before the preseason began. Though there was a chance for McCaffrey to play at the start of the season, he had a setback ahead of week one. If all goes well in practice this week, McCaffrey is on pace to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is a key piece missing on the offense. Though the offense has moved downfield, they have struggled in the red zone. McCaffrey returning, even if it is a slow start, will open up the San Francisco offense. McCaffrey ended the 2023 regular season with 1,459 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, according to Pro Football Reference. He also had 67 receptions for 564 yards and seven touchdowns.
The 49ers only have four wins this season, but the NFC West is still in reach. Getting a key player back to finish out the season is a major momentum boost for San Francisco, who are coming off of their bye week.
Jon Feliciano’s Role with the 49ers
Veteran offensive lineman, Feliciano will also have his practice window opened. Feliciano has also missed the first half of the season after undergoing knee surgery in August. Feliciano signed with the 49ers ahead of the 2023 season. He eventually became the starting guard for San Francisco.
The offensive line has been struggling this season, but rookie guard Dominick Puni has been exceptional in his role. Even if Feliciano does not come in and start right away, he will likely be the guy to come in if something does go wrong on the line, whether it be injuries or a switch of the starting player. Feliciano can also play center if the 49ers need. Getting Feliciano back from a depth standpoint alone is big news for San Francisco.
Other 49ers Back at Practice
Although not on IR, both wide receiver Jauan Jennings and kicker Jake Moody returned to practice. This is great news, as the 49ers will be getting two more starters back. Jennings has been out since the Thursday Night Football game against the Seattle Seahawks. With wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk out for the season, Jennings’ role on the offense is set to grow even more than it has been. Moody has been out since the week five matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Though it is not official if either will play against the Buccaneers, practicing on Monday is a good sign.
Between players such as McCaffrey still not making their season debut, and others such as Aiyuk being out for the year, it has not been the healthiest season for San Francisco. The 49ers have a tough road ahead, but they are getting healthy at the perfect time. the 49ers still have not opened the practice window for linebacker Dre Greenlaw, but that could be something to watch for within the next couple of weeks.
The 4-4 San Francisco 49ers will face the 4-4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Nov. 10 at Raymond James Stadium.
