Christian McCaffrey injury update: 49ers star RB out of Browns game with oblique injury

The injuries on offense are piling up for the 49ers.

Running back Christian McCaffrey has been ruled out of the 49ers' contest against the Browns on Sunday. The MVP candidate left, then returned for one play before ultimately heading to the locker room.

According to reports, it is an oblique injury for McCaffrey. 

Christian McCaffrey returned briefly, but now is headed to the locker room. https://t.co/OtTyGTaeIn

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 15, 2023

It's been a brutal day for the San Francisco offense. Not only has it struggled against a stingy Cleveland defense, star wide receiver Deebo Samuel left with a shoulder injury and offensive tackle Trent Williams missed some time with an ankle injury. 

MORE: Get the latest injury updates on 49ers WR Deebo Samuel

Earlier in the game, McCaffrey found the end zone for a rushing TD, marking his 15th consecutive game with a score. 

Christian McCaffrey now has 15 straight games with a touchdown!

(Via: NFL, FOX)pic.twitter.com/s8MJuqxWGV

— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) October 15, 2023

Here are the latest injury news and updates on McCaffrey:

Christian McCaffrey injury update

McCaffrey injured his oblique and will not return vs. the Browns. 

The San Francisco running back was seen trying to loosen his side early in the second half before exiting.

Christian McCaffrey is trying to loosen up on the sideline@ErinAndrews has more on his injury status ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/L9BnFd9UXH

— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) October 15, 2023

It's unclear when exactly the injury occurred. McCaffrey left briefly, returned for a play that was called back due to a flag and then went down the tunnel to the locker room.

Get NFL Game Pass to watch every regular and postseason match, including the Super Bowl - All live and on demand.

On Monday, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said McCaffrey is having an MRI to evaluate his ribs and oblique.

49ers RB depth chart

With McCaffrey out of the game for now, Elijah Mitchell should be the featured back for San Francisco. 

The 2021 sixth-round pick out of Louisiana had not been active for the last couple of weeks due to a knee injury. He last played in Week 3 against the Giants. On the season, Mitchell has 16 carries for 52 yards, along with three catches for two yards. 

In addition to Mitchell, Jordan Mason and Tyrion Davis-Price are active against the Browns.