SANTA CLARA, Calif. — As the San Francisco 49ers concluded a grueling season that tested the team’s resilience, running back Christian McCaffrey stood before the media, reflecting on what had been a transformative and challenging year for him both on and off the field. “This was one of the hardest years of my life,” McCaffrey candidly shared, alluding to the personal and physical hurdles he faced.
Throughout the season, injuries plagued several key 49ers players, including quarterback Brock Purdy, tight end George Kittle, and defensive stalwarts like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner. However, McCaffrey defied the odds, showcasing remarkable durability. After battling significant injuries in 2024, which sidelined him for half the season, McCaffrey remarkably started all 19 games in 2025, solidifying his status as an ironman in a sport notorious for its physical demands.
Despite entering each game as San Francisco’s primary running back, McCaffrey still managed to put up impressive numbers, finishing second in the NFL with 2,126 scrimmage yards and third with 17 total touchdowns. He was a finalist for several league awards, including the coveted Most Valuable Player and Offensive Player of the Year, though it was the Comeback Player of the Year award that resonated with him the most given his struggles the previous season.
Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan praised McCaffrey’s commitment and work ethic. “I’ve never been around anything like that,” Shanahan said, emphasizing the dedication McCaffrey showed in preparing his body to perform week in and week out. Following the disappointment of the previous season, where the 49ers struggled without him and finished with a 6-11 record, McCaffrey focused on rigorous rehabilitation and training during the offseason, even as he and his wife awaited the arrival of their first child.
McCaffrey’s strong performance was pivotal in leading the 49ers to a successful 12-5 season, helping the team secure a wild-card playoff spot and come within striking distance of the NFC’s top seed. His ability to not only withstand the rigors of the season but to excel makes it clear that he has become an indispensable asset to the team. Since joining the 49ers in 2022, the team’s success has been closely tied to his availability and performance. When McCaffrey is on the field, the team’s scoring averages spike significantly.
Although McCaffrey’s rushing average dropped to 3.9 yards per carry—his lowest since 2020—his versatility as a receiver shone through. With 102 receptions, he led all running backs and finished with 924 receiving yards, showcasing his ability to adapt and contribute in multiple facets.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, McCaffrey, now approaching 30, faces the challenge of following up on a demanding season where he logged over 400 touches, a feat accomplished by only eight players in the last two decades. As the 49ers consider strategies to manage his workload, including potentially adding depth at the running back position, McCaffrey remains focused on his love for the game.
“I’ll do whatever it takes for this team,” he declared. “I love playing football. I love when the ball is in my hands, love competing. I’ll always be that way.” This unwavering determination paints a hopeful picture for both McCaffrey and the 49ers as they prepare for the challenges of the next season.