The San Francisco 49ers have been able to overcome major injuries to start the season undefeated, but they now have another key player sidelined.

Star running back Christian McCaffrey had to leave the 49ers’ game in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons after appearing to suffer an injury. While McCaffrey was able to lead the offense to an early touchdown drive, it may have come at a cost. 

With McCaffrey out, Kaelon Black got the majority of the running back reps, producing 60 yards and a touchdown in McCaffrey’s absence. San Francisco also has running back Jordan James active for the game.

Here’s a deeper look at McCaffrey’s injury.

MORE: Kenneth Walker III’s stats in 2026 prove Seahawks’ big loss is Chiefs’ bigger gain

Christian McCaffrey injury update

Christian McCaffrey suffered a thigh injury against the Falcons that forced the running back to leave the game. McCaffrey opened the game with 29 rushing yards and a touchdown on four carries before he was sidelined.

In the first quarter, the 49ers declared McCaffrey questionable to return with the injury. However, McCaffrey did not appear with the team while the first half wound down, as he seemed to head to the locker room early.

Before McCaffrey went to the locker room, the Fox broadcast did show him getting treatment on the sideline while Kyle Shanahan was going over film with him

McCaffrey has a detailed injury history, but he has played in every game of the season so far in 2026.

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