49ers news: Christian McCaffrey could be placed on the Injured Reserve after setback

The San Francisco 49ers had their final practice before leaving for Minneapolis on Friday. Running back Christian McCaffrey was absent during the portion where the media could watch. That leaves his status in doubt for Week 2, despite saying he’s mentally preparing to play against the Vikings earlier in the week.

The 49ers travel to Los Angeles next week to take on the Rams. That will be a big game for seeding and tiebreaker purposes. One would think that McCaffrey would do everything in his power to play in an NFC West game. If he can’t go, it might be the ultimate sign for the Niners to shut down their star running back.

Shanahan said that Thursday’s practice was Christian’s “worst day” since recovering from his Achilles/Calf injury after dealing with pain once practice was completed. He also added that the 49ers are considering the Injured Reserve for McCaffrey.

So, it’ll be another week of Jordan Mason receiving the bulk of the carries. We’ll see if Mason sees an uptick in usage as a receiver based on the Vikings’ heavy blitz tendencies.

Here’s a look at the 49ers final injury report:

OUT – RB Christian McCaffrey (calf, Achilles)

DOUBTFUL – S Talanoa Hufanga (knee)

QUESTIONABLE – LB Dee Winters (ankle)

Yetur Gross-Matos is off the injury report. Shanahan said Gross-Matos had a “hell of a camp” and is expected to rotate in. That’ll give the 49ers a third pass rusher that they didn’t have last week. They could also give Nick Bosa and Leonard Floyd a breather off a short week.

Jauan Jennings is also off the injury report. He left Monday night with an ankle injury.

The Minnesota Vikings ruled out wide receiver Jordan Addison, who did not practice all week after leaving Week 1 in the third quarter with an ankle injury. Right tackle Brian O’Neil, right guard Ed Ingram, and safety Harrison Smith are all questionable.