On Saturday, the San Francisco 49ers announced that they have activated star running back Christian McCaffrey from IR (injured reserve). McCaffrey, the NFL's reigning Offensive Player of the Year, has been sidelined all season due to Achilles tendinitis. He missed training camp, as well as the offseason program. But now, the defending NFL rushing champ is back, although there is no indication of how much he will play.
Jordan Mason filled in admirably during McCaffrey's absence, rushing for 685 yards and three touchdowns despite a shoulder injury. With McCaffrey set to return, Mason will no longer be required to carry the load. The 49ers also have rookie Isaac Guerendo, who filled in after Mason was injured. Against the Dallas Cowboys two weeks ago, Guerendo rushed for 85 yards.
In addition to activating McCaffrey, the 49ers announced that they have elevated safety Tashaun Gipson from the practice squad ahead of their game in Tampa against the Buccaneers.
Gipson, a 12-year veteran, spent the past two seasons with the 49ers. He missed the first six weeks of the season because of a suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing policy. With former All-Pro Talanoa Hufanga still out with an injury, Gipson could provide some veteran leadership to a young safety room that includes second-year player Ji'Ayir Brown and rookie Malik Mustapha. Gipson may be needed this week. Mustapha is listed as questionable due to a calf injury.
Additionally, the 49ers have downgraded OL Jon Feliciano from questionable to out for Sunday's game. The team opened Feliciano's practice window this week, but the veteran offensive lineman will not be activated at this time.