Rapoport: McCaffrey Tightness "Not Fake," Injury Confirmed Aug 18

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has not practiced since August 8 due to what the team has described as unspecified tightness, an absence that has sparked speculation about his contract status. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on August 18 that the injury is legitimate and not a contractual hold-in, stating, "This is not fake. Actual tightness. Not fake tightness." He added that the issue does not seem to be a major concern.

The 49ers have maintained that McCaffrey is dealing with tightness, though they have not specified the affected body part. Head coach Kyle Shanahan explained the team's cautious approach, saying his concern is McCaffrey "toughing through tightness" and risking a more serious injury that could sideline him for a month. Shanahan expressed confidence in McCaffrey's preparation and ability to be ready for the regular-season opener on September 10 against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.

Despite the team's stance, some league observers have noted the timing of McCaffrey's absence. It began days after the running back market was reset by two major contracts. The Atlanta Falcons signed Bijan Robinson to a three-year extension...