Injury Updates: McCaffrey Returns to Practice, Bears Uncertain on Gordon

As the NFL regular season draws near, teams are busy managing injuries and finalizing their rosters. San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has returned to practice, showcasing his readiness for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles addressed the ongoing uncertainty surrounding cornerback Kyler Gordon's recovery from a calf injury.

McCaffrey was spotted on the field during Tuesday's practice, making sharp cuts and looking explosive during team drills. This marks a significant return after he missed over two weeks of training camp due to what was described as general "tightness." While it remains unclear if this issue is related to the Achilles tendinitis that sidelined him in 2024, his presence on the field is a positive sign as the 49ers prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 1.

Last season, McCaffrey had a career-high 413 total touches, including 311 rushes for 1,202 yards and 10 touchdowns, along with 102 receptions for 924 yards and seven touchdowns. If he can maintain his health, the 49ers' offense, bolstered by the addition of Mike Evans and rookie De’Zhaun Stribling, could emerge as a formidable force in the competitive NFC West.

In contrast, the Bears are grappling with uncertainty regarding Kyler Gordon, who has been sidelined throughout the offseason due to a lingering calf injury. After signing a three-year, $40 million contract extension in April 2025, Gordon has only appeared in five games since then. When asked about Gordon's potential return for the 2026 season, Poles offered a cautious response, stating, "I don't know. I would hope so."

Injury recovery impacts roster decisions

Poles emphasized the unpredictable nature of injury recovery, noting that players can return at varying speeds. Gordon is currently working with team trainers and consulting outside medical personnel, but his progress has not been as swift as the team would like. The Bears have also placed safety Coby Bryant and tight end Hayden Large on injured reserve, making room for new signings on the active roster.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. has returned to practice after dealing with a back injury. However, he remains uncertain about his availability for the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, as he is also navigating contract negotiations entering the final year of his rookie deal. Porter acknowledged the challenges of balancing his on-field preparation with the business side of football, stating, "I could hope and think all day, but it’s really up to the front office and what they want to do with this team."

New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson has not practiced in over a week due to an ankle injury sustained during training camp. Although he returned to practice on Tuesday, he has not yet been cleared for full participation. His status for Week 1 remains uncertain, and if he is unable to play, Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to take on a heavier workload as the featured back. Henderson's productive rookie season, where he amassed 911 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, makes his potential absence a significant concern for the Patriots as they prepare for their opener against the Seattle Seahawks.