An Open Letter to Christian McCaffery: Questions Heading Into Week 6
Dear Christian McCaffery,
The San Francisco 49ers have had a successful start to the season, and much of that is thanks to you. San Francisco is currently 4-1 and coming off a thrilling overtime win against a division rival, the Los Angeles Rams. After returning from injury, you have shown out so far with almost 300 rushing yards and nearly 400 receiving yards through Week 5.
With one of the easiest regular-season schedules, it looks like you and your team will continue to roll through your opponents. However, the injuries on both sides of the ball are starting to add up. Fox Sports still ranks the 49ers as a top-5 NFL offense, although Brock Purdy, Jauan Jennings, and Ricky Pearsall are questionable, and George Kittle is on injured reserve. On the other side of the ball, Robert Saleh has led a middle-of-the-pack defense through Week 5, according to Fox Sports. While you can’t answer for the defensive side of the ball, Christian, I’m curious about where your head is at regarding the state of your team.
How has the 49ers’ success in 2025 felt different from other seasons?
In previous seasons that included Super Bowl and NFC Championship runs, the 49ers roster had relatively clean bills of health and was known for splashy plays on defense. After multiple Pro-Bowlers signing elsewhere in the offseason and injuries to offensive skilled players, San Francisco still sits atop the NFC West.
What’s one game or moment this season that you feel defines the 49ers’ identity?
Many moments on offense throughout the season have helped shape your team’s success. With none of their starting wideouts playing in Week 5, the 49ers pulled out a win against their division rivals, the Rams. This win meant a lot to the 49ers Faithful and helped to combat the doubters.
What are some tips you would give to young NFL running backs?
What is it like being a veteran presence on the field, especially with guys like George Kittle and Jauan Jennings being sidelined?
How was fatherhood/being a girl dad changed your outlook on life and your career?
For a couple of years now, you have been a veteran presence and role model for your younger teammates in San Francisco. I’d love to learn more about how becoming a father and dealing with injuries has changed you as a leader!
What is it like playing for an NFL team that’s just down the road from where you played college football?
While you did not grow up in the Bay Area, I’m curious how it feels to be back in the area to play professionally. Stanford fans have a lot of respect and love for you. It must be a unique experience to come back to play in front of a community that you once called home.