Elijah Mitchell

During last week’s game against the Commanders, Christian McCaffrey suffered a calf strain and had to leave last week’s game early. However, his exit from the game was a precautionary measure as the 49ers were already in control of the game. As the team has now secured the number 1 seed in the NFC, there is no need for McCaffrey to play in week 18. Expect other 49er starters as well to be sitting in week 18.

McCaffrey will end his electric year with All-Pro numbers across the board with 1459 yards rushing, 2023 all-purpose yards, 21 touchdowns, and finishing the season in the MVP conversation.

Last week, Elijah Mitchell performed exceptionally well, carrying the ball 17 times for 80 yards and scoring a touchdown. With McCaffrey already ruled out, it is expected that Mitchell will continue to play a vital role in the 49ers’ backfield in week 18 along with Jordan Mason who will see some playing time as well.

Mitchell has had a minimal role in the team’s offense this season and is now out with a knee injury. As a result, Christian McCaffery will be the primary running back for the 49ers with Jordan Mason as his backup.

Although Mason has mainly played on special teams this season, he will now step up in Mitchell’s absence. He had some early success last week when he scored a touchdown after McCaffery’s 72-yard run down inside the 5.