The injury news for the 49ers was twice as bad as expected Monday.
Running back Christian McCaffrey will go on injured reserve with a posterior cruciate ligament strain that may not need surgery, but is serious enough to sideline him for the season. To make matters worse, Jordan Mason, the 49ers’ leading rusher, will also go on IR with a high ankle sprain and isn’t expected back either.
The 49ers are coming of a 35-10 road loss to the Buffalo Bills and will host the Chicago Bears Sunday at Levi’s Stadium with fading playoff hopes that just took another blow with the loss of two key offensive performers.
Also going on injured reserve will be defensive tackle Kevin Givens, who returned from a groin injury but sustained a torn pectoral against Buffalo.
Shanahan said he hasn’t had a chance to speak with McCaffrey, who played in just three games after missing the offseason and training camp with bilateral Achilles tendinitis and had 53 yards in seven carries before being injured on a 19-yard gain in the first half.
“I’ll connect this afternoon,” Shanahan said. “It was a real frustrating year for him. He worked hias ass off to get to that point and had that real unfortunate injury. He’ll get through this, he’s a hell of a player, a hell of a person, an unbelievable 49er an he’ll be back next year.”
Mason gained 78 yards on 13 carries against Buffalo before giving way to rookie Isaac Guerendo.
With Mason out, the 49ers leading rushers are quarterback Brock Purdy (53 carries, 271 yards) and Guerendo (42 carries for 246 yards).
Guerendo will get plenty of work with the first team, the 49ers will be promoted by Patrick Taylor Jr. from the practice squad an will be in the market for another running back.
SNAP JUDGEMENTS
58: Cornerback Chararius Ward didn’t miss a defensive snap in his return to the lineup. He was one of four players to play ever snap, joining cornerback Renardo Green, safety Malik Mustapha and safety Ji’Ayir Brown.