McCaffrey returns to 49ers training; Bears GM hedges on Gordon timeline

With the NFL regular season opener just one week away, teams are finalising their injury assessments and roster decisions. The San Francisco 49ers received a significant boost on Tuesday when running back Christian McCaffrey returned to practice after missing more than two weeks of training camp. His return signals readiness for the Week 1 match against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia.

McCaffrey was observed making cuts and displaying explosive movement during team drills on Tuesday afternoon. He had been sidelined due to general tightness, though it remains unclear whether this was linked to the Achilles tendinitis that affected him in 2024 or a precautionary measure for other minor issues. His availability is crucial for the 49ers, who are looking to build momentum in a competitive NFC West.

The return of McCaffrey is particularly notable given his workload in the previous season, which was the heaviest of his career. He accumulated a career-high 413 total touches, recording 311 rushes for 1,202 yards and 10 touchdowns, along with 102 receptions for 924 yards and seven touchdowns. If he maintains this health, the 49ers’ offensive unit, which now includes additions such as Mike Evans and rookie De’Zhaun Stribling alongside quarterback Brock Purdy, is positioned to be one of the most formidable in the league.

In contrast, the Chicago Bears are facing continued uncertainty regarding their defensive back Kyler Gordon. General manager Ryan Poles expressed doubt on Tuesday about Gordon’s return timeline as he recovers from a lingering calf injury. Gordon has been sidelined throughout the entire offseason, a period that has raised questions about the value of his recent contract extension.

Gordon signed a three-year, $40 million deal in April 2025, yet he has appeared in only five games since the agreement was reached. When asked by reporters if he envisioned Gordon playing during the upcoming 2026 season, Poles offered a guarded response. “I don't know. I would hope so,” Poles stated. “I still have hope there. He's going to have to continue to work hard and get back to playing.”

Poles declined to provide specific details on the recovery process, noting that Gordon is working with team trainers while also consulting outside medical personnel. He described the situation as a matter of timing, healing, and confidence, acknowledging that recovery speeds vary significantly among players.

Elsewhere in the league, other key players are also managing their return to fitness. New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson remains sidelined while rehabilitating an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Joey Porter Jr. responded with uncertainty when asked if he would be available for Week 1, simply stating, “I don't know.”