49ers RB Christian McCaffrey (thigh) returns after first-half exit

Field Level Media|published: 10/25/2026, 3:01pm EDT

Oct 25, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) is tackled by Atlanta Falcons linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. (56) during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

San Francisco 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey returned to open the second half after he departed in the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday with a thigh injury.

After catching three passes for 45 yards and rushing four times for 29 yards with a touchdown, McCaffrey exited before trainers worked on his left leg. He then jogged to the locker room for further examination while he was listed as questionable to return.

The 10-year veteran sat out the 49ers' entire third drive, which ended with backup running back Kaelon Black's 30-yard rushing touchdown. The 49ers led 14-12 at halftime.

McCaffrey had just one carry for minus-2 yards on San Francisco's first drive of the second half.

--Field Level Media