Christian McCaffrey sustained a torn PCL during the San Francisco 49ers’ 35-10 defeat against the Buffalo Bills in Week 13. This injury is projected to keep him out for approximately six weeks, likely ending his 2024 NFL season.
For the first time, McCaffrey spoke about his latest injury in a statement shared on social media on Wednesday. He reflected on the “humbling” aspects of playing football and recognized that 2024 hasn’t been a good year for him.
“To me, football is the greatest game on Earth,” the 28-year-old expressed on Instagram. “I appreciate how it reveals your true self without uttering a single word. It can elevate you or break you, and it can change quickly. It’s humbling in many wonderful ways. You can do everything right yet still come up short. (That’s) life, and that’s football. It’s a relentless test of will, and those who keep persevering usually gain from their endurance. This wasn’t my year, and sometimes it feels like trouble comes in waves.”
Indeed, 2024 was not a favorable year for McCaffrey. He encountered a challenging start to the season, grappling with Achilles tendinitis in both legs, which caused him to miss the first eight games with San Francisco.
Finally making his return to the field in Week 10, McCaffrey didn’t display his usual explosive self. He was unable to exceed 79 rushing yards in any single game and did not score any touchdowns during his four starts.
During Week 13, it appeared that McCaffrey was finally finding his rhythm. He started strong against the Bills, accumulating 58 yards on his initial six carries, but his right knee hit the ground hard in the second quarter after being tackled. A few plays later, McCaffrey slid down on a straightforward handoff. He limped off the field and did not return to the game, ultimately receiving a diagnosis of a potentially season-ending injury.
If his season is indeed concluded, McCaffrey will end 2024 with a total of 202 rushing yards on 50 carries without any touchdowns. He also contributed 15 receptions for 146 yards, making his overall total of 348 scrimmage yards and games played a career low for the eight-year veteran.
Nonetheless, McCaffrey is determined not to let this disappointing season affect him. Instead, he’s channeling this experience into motivation to return stronger in 2025.
“You can indulge in self-pity and listen to the negativity, or you can stay the course,” McCaffrey mentioned in his post. “I am thankful for all the support from my circle, and I assure you I will train harder and smarter than ever to come back even better. I love my teammates, I cherish the (49ers), and I have a passion for football. God’s plans are never missed. Onward.”
