49ers Insider: Christian McCaffrey Looks ‘Electric’ in Return from Injury

Santa Clara, CA – After weeks of recovery and cautious optimism, Christian McCaffrey is officially back on the field — and according to a trusted 49ers insider, the star running back is looking “electric” in his return from injury.

McCaffrey, who missed time late last season due to a nagging oblique strain, has rejoined full-team drills and is reportedly moving with the same speed, agility, and explosiveness that made him one of the NFL’s most feared offensive weapons.

Insider Report: “He Hasn’t Lost a Step”

A team source told The Athletic that McCaffrey was “bursting through the line with purpose” and looked “as sharp and focused as ever.”

“He’s cutting hard, exploding off his plant foot, and torching linebackers in one-on-ones. He hasn’t lost a step — if anything, he looks faster,” the insider said.

What This Means for the 49ers Offense

With Brock Purdy solidifying his role at quarterback and the return of key playmakers like Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, McCaffrey’s healthy return rounds out one of the most dangerous offensive units in the NFL.

Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan has already hinted at a heavier workload for McCaffrey, including expanded use in the passing game.

“Christian’s versatility allows us to do things no other team can. When he’s 100%, we’re a different team,” Shanahan noted.

Fans React with Cautious Optimism

49ers fans — still reeling from the team’s heartbreaking playoff exit last season — are thrilled to see McCaffrey back but also wary of his injury history. The former All-Pro has battled multiple injuries throughout his career, including ankle and hamstring issues during his time with the Panthers.

Still, the early buzz is overwhelmingly positive:

“If CMC stays healthy, we’re headed back to the NFC Championship — no doubt,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Looking Ahead: Preseason and Beyond

With the preseason approaching, Shanahan is expected to limit McCaffrey’s reps to avoid any setbacks. However, the current signs are encouraging — and if his performance in camp is any indication, McCaffrey could be poised for a career year.

Final Word

Christian McCaffrey’s return couldn’t come at a better time for the 49ers. With high expectations and a roster built to win now, the sight of No. 23 slicing through defenders in practice is exactly what fans — and coaches — were hoping to see.

And if he truly is “electric” again, the rest of the NFC better be on notice.