49ers Seek McCaffrey Backup, Eye Free Agents

0:00It's March 30th, you're listening to NFL News Today, AI-powered football coverage. I'm Cory with the story. Christian McCaffrey led the entire NFL and touches from Scrimmage last season, way ahead of everyone else. The San Francisco 49er star stayed healthy all year and balled out, but heading into his age 30 season in 2026, the team, wants to ease up on that heavy load to keep him fresh. Coach Kyle Shanhan made it clear at the league meetings this week, saying they need a real backup to share the work. McCaffrey has battled injuries before, missing big chunks in past years like 2020 and 2024, so repeating 311, Kerry's and 102 catches is too risky for their run-heavy attack. Fans and analysts see the logic, especially after the 49ers, led Brian Robinson Jr. walking free agency to back up Bijan Robinson with a Atlanta Falcons, that leads them leaning on in-house guys like Ricky Jordan James, who flashed late last year and Isaac Garindo

1:00solid in the passing game, but, mostly special teams lately, Shanahan's eyeing outside helped too, with free agents like Najee Harris bouncing back from an Achilles tear after stints with the Chargers Austin, Echler who mirrors McCaffrey's all-around style despite his own injury, Antonio Gibson post ACL with the Patriots and even Old teammate Rahim, Mastere for a reunion vibe. Neither James nor Garindo checks every box yet in Shanahan's versatile scheme, so expect the 49ers to hunt that perfect number two. Offseason, setting up McCaffrey for another deep playoff push without breaking him down.