Much of the 49ers' success in 2025 hinges on Christian McCaffrey, and early indications are he's fully healthy and ready to go.
One of the biggest X-factors for the San Francisco 49ers in 2025 is whether or not All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey will be fully healthy and able to contribute in manners not unlike his Offensive Player of the Year campaign in 2023.
If anything, fans want the team to avoid having him appear in just four games, as was the case during his injury-plagued 2024 season.
Fortunately, initial reports about McCaffrey from organized team activities aren't just encouraging. They're downright excellent.
From the SF Standard's Tim Kawakami, who pointed out how "No. 23 looked very, very good:"
Quick thoughts from the 49ers' 1st OTA open to media:
— Tim Kawakami (@timkawakami) May 29, 2025
-No pads or helmets for team drills, but Mykel Williams still was noticeable chasing runners from the back side. He's a real presence.
-Purdy to Jennings was the top pass connection.
-RB wearing No. 23 looked very, very good.
McCaffrey's health (good or otherwise) during OTAs was seen as a crucial glimpse into how San Francisco's upcoming season might go, especially considering offseason departures of other running backs who supported the All-Pro in previous seasons, namely Jordan Mason and Elijah Mitchell.
True, the 49ers selected rookie rusher Jordan James out of Oregon on day three of this year's NFL Draft last April, but it's pretty evident the full hope is for McCaffrey to shoulder the load on the ground this season.
"Christian is as ready as any player I've ever been around," head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters after practice. "When he gets hurt, he's got to rehab and get better. Right now he's healthy as can be."
Encouraging.
Granted, OTAs don't allow contact, and players rarely go full speed at these practices.
But, unlike last year when McCaffrey was already dealing with calf and Achilles issues, it appears as if he's in the best shape possible heading toward training camp.
And that's about the best news possible, too, for the Niners and their fans.