The San Francisco 49ers had the true MVP on their roster last season.
Christian McCaffrey ran away with the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award — both literally and figuratively.
The fact that he didn’t win MVP with the numbers he posted raised questions about what a non-quarterback needs to do to be considered for this award.
Nonetheless, as much as he thrived last season, Kyle Shanahan and the Niners want to make sure to keep him fresh for years to come, even if that means reducing his workload.
As reported by Fox News, Shanahan claimed that the Niners need to protect the 28-year-old from himself, as he never wants to come off the field, but that’s something that will need to happen in 2024.
49ers’ Kyle Shanahan hopes to reduce Christian McCaffrey’s workload next season https://t.co/nJyAyuAyEd
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 30, 2024
Shanahan also stated that they have more than capable running backs to back him up.
The three-time Pro Bowler led the league with 339 touches last season.
He’s averaged at least 19.4 touches per game over the past six seasons, but his history of injuries is a major concern.
The Niners recently rewarded him with a big contract extension that made him the highest-paid running back in the game and will keep him with the organization through 2027, so they must make sure he’s healthy and on the field for most of that time.
He was on the field for 81% of his team’s offensive snaps last season.
His versatility as a pass-catcher and dual-threat player makes him the jack of all trades for Shanahan’s creative and innovative offense, which is why they must keep him safe and sound for the playoffs.
