Week 7's loss to the Atlanta Falcons revealed several painful truths to the San Francisco 49ers.
One, they desperately need wide receiver Mike Evans (Achilles) back in the lineup. Two, they desperately need running back Christian McCaffrey to stay healthy.
Had the Niners won, McCaffrey would've been the main reason why, having accumulated 100 net yards and a touchdown while displaying his dual-threat status. Yet he also exited the game not long after an impressive first drive that culminated in a score, and it wasn't until after halftime that he returned with what was ruled a thigh injury.
In his stead, both backup running backs Kaelon Black and Jordan James fumbled, and San Francisco lost one of those—a crucial turning point in the game.
Fortunately, CMC was able to work his way back in the game, although the 49ers never regained momentum.
In the big picture, at least the Niners can rest a bit easier knowing McCaffrey's injury wasn't serious.
Christian McCaffrey on injury: 'I'll be fine'
At least McCaffrey jogged off to the locker room when he exited. That was a small bit of relief, and his postgame comments shed a positive light, too.
"It sucks because I felt like I was going on a run there, and my leg just died on me," McCaffrey told reporters postgame. "I was trying to get it going for the whole rest of the game, but it just sucks trying to play like that. I know I'll be all right, but it's just really frustrating."
McCaffrey ultimately finished with seven rushing attempts and six receptions, while Black led all tailbacks with 12 carries for 63 yards and a touchdown.
In light of missing so many offensive weapons, San Francisco is significantly better with CMC in the lineup. And it doesn't appear as if he'll miss time.
"I'll be fine. I'm not worried about it," McCaffrey continued.
The 49ers get a bye break in Week 8, and it couldn't come at a better time. Evans is poised to return, as is wide receiver Deebo Samuel, while fellow receivers De'Zhaun Stribling and Demarcus Robinson will be that much closer to coming back from ankle injuries.
The Niners will then host the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 9.
Add us as a preferred source on Google