Christian McCaffrey's absence could actualy benefit 49ers offense

The San Francisco 49ers were without their star running back, Christian McCaffrey, for Monday night's game against the New York Jets. It did not matter as the Niners dominated to the tune of 32-19 on the scoreboard.

Unfortunately, it seems very likely that McCaffrey may not be able to play this Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings either.

It would not be accurate (or wise) to say San Francisco's offense is better without McCaffrey, but it can be argued that McCaffrey's absence will be good for the team in the long run.

Tight end George Kittle essentially said as much in his postgame interview, which can be viewed below:

If you cannot access or view the social media post from KNBR, essentially Kittle just says that the playbook shrinks for the Niners when McCaffrey is not on the field. That means play calls may be a little simpler and not as complex as when head coach and offensive play caller Kyle Shanahan has all of his weapons at his disposal.

This is beneficial for the offense for a few reasons.

For one, Shanahan is one of the most gifted offensive minds in the NFL. That is a great attribute, but it can also work to his detriment because there are times when it seems play calls can be a bit too overly complex, or he may be overthinking things when simply running the ball would suffice.

When you take away one of his weapons, that forces Shanahan to not be too cute and simply take what the defense is giving him. This could be an important reminder for Shanahan that not every play has to be the most beautifully drawn-up or creative.

Sometimes, simplicity is not your enemy in the NFL.

Second, if No. 2 running back Jordan Mason can continue to impress in McCaffrey's absence, that means it will be very difficult for the Niners to not work him in more even when they get the reigning Offensive Player of the Year back on the field.

This will be good because it seems clear that McCaffrey's workload last year is simply not tenable. It is hard not to keep him in the game when he is available because of how good he is, but Mason is proving he is far from a slouch. His success means that even when McCaffrey is back, will not always have to run the ball 20-plus times per game and can get a rest every now and then. Their offense will be better when he is better rested.

In the long run, both of these developments will be better. A little more simplicity is a great reminder for Shanahan that complexity is not always better, and a healthier and better-rested McCaffrey (due to an emergent Mason) are two very positive developments that should pay dividends later on.

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