Christian McCaffrey is fully embracing his role as a father, and the San Francisco 49ers running back has shared the joy of seeing his 5-month-old daughter, Colette, before games. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, he expressed how important family is to him, saying that those moments provide a crucial reminder of why he competes on the field. “My family is one of the reasons I play,” McCaffrey noted during the interview, emphasizing the emotional boost he gets from seeing his loved ones prior to a game.
He reflects fondly on his childhood, recalling how he watched his own father play football. Although he knows Colette won’t remember these early experiences, he cherishes the idea of her being present during his games. The sense of connection it brings is significant for him.
The couple shares Colette with model and former Miss Universe, Olivia Culpo, who has also captured hearts with her daughter’s adorable game-day outfits. McCaffrey shared a lighthearted moment about Culpo’s flair for dressing up Colette, especially on game day.
Recently, Culpo posted a series of pictures on Instagram, showcasing Colette in a cute 49ers-themed outfit that resembled McCaffrey’s own jersey, celebrating the team’s triumphant 37-24 victory over the Tennessee Titans. The outfit, designed by Stitched by Rox and Doloris Petunia, featured Colette sporting a fuzzy white hat and a vibrant red sweater, much to the delight of fans.
With the busy NFL season upon them, McCaffrey also spoke about the challenges of celebrating holidays. “Our lives are so hectic, especially during football season,” he explained. He stressed that while they may not always have the luxury of a traditional celebration, gathering as many family members as possible during this time is a cherished victory. McCaffrey looks forward to establishing more holiday traditions once his playing days conclude.
Through his journey as a professional athlete and new father, McCaffrey exemplifies the balance of sports and family life, highlighting the importance of love and support during challenging times. This perspective not only enriches his experience in the NFL but also resonates with many fans who appreciate his dedication to fatherhood.