The 49ers just got a lot more dangerous. They acquired star running back Christian McCaffrey from the Panthers on Thursday night, pending a physical.
San Francisco sent four draft picks back Carolina's way, but none are first-rounders. The Niners don't own their first-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft; they traded it to the Dolphins in the deal for the No. 3 overall pick in 2021, which turned into Trey Lance.
CHRISTIAN McCAFFREY TRADED TO 49ERS:
- Trade details: SF sends picks to Carolina
- Why did the Panthers trade McCaffrey?
- Trade grades: Niners strike gold
- Niners aren't taking a big financial gamble
- Who's the next man up in the Panthers' backfield?
The move gives Jimmy Garoppolo one of the best dual-threat running backs in the league. McCaffrey is a dynamic playmaker with the ball in his hands. The 49ers haven't had a true No. 1 running back in a few seasons; a healthy McCaffrey gives them an elite one.
The first opportunity for McCaffrey to don the red and gold will be Sunday when the 49ers host the Chiefs at Levi's Stadium. It will take a lot of quick learning for McCaffrey to be on the field and ready for snaps by Sunday, but it is possible.
Here is the latest news on McCaffrey's status for Sunday's game:
MORE: How Christian McCaffrey fits perfectly in 49ers offense
Will Christian McCaffrey play this week?
It is expected that McCaffrey will suit up for the 49ers on Sunday. Fox Sports' Jay Glazer reports that McCaffrey will play about 20 snaps and could see more in the contest depending on the game flow.
McCaffrey playing is a quick turnaround: the trade was agreed to late Thursday night. But McCaffrey reportedly was in contact with coach Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers' front office shortly after the trade and headed to California on Friday.
New #49ers RB Christian McCaffrey, who has already spoken to coach Kyle Shanahan and team brass, travels tomorrow to his new home. If he plays Sunday, which he likely will do, expect a red zone package. Then he'll ramp up from there.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 21, 2022
Shanahan didn't reveal too much regarding McCaffrey's availability in his Friday presser, so that kept fans guessing about San Fran's game plan. But now, it looks like he will suit up.
If McCaffrey has a limited playbook, then Jeff Wilson Jr. should lead the Niners' backfield again. He has been filling in for the injured Elijah Mitchell. Deebo Samuel and Tevin Coleman could also see touches in the run game if McCaffrey can't play as much as expected.
