San Francisco 49er RB McCaffrey Misses Another Practice

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey appears to be heading for a well-earned rest in Week 18. The one-time All-Pro missed his second straight practice of the week on Thursday, casting doubt over his availability for Sunday's matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.

No major changes to the 49ers' practice report, but Kevin Givens participated for the first time since his Week 14 injury. https://t.co/eDSvEEM9Kt
— Kyle Madson (@KyleAMadson) January 6, 2023

McCaffrey is dealing with a nagging ankle injury, but it has yet to cost him meaningful playing time. He's coming off arguably the best game of his season: he totalled a season-high 193 yards from scrimmage on only 25 touches in the 49ers' Week 17 37-34 overtime win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

The 49ers have already clinched the NFC West and can only earn the conference's top seed if the Philadelphia Eagles lose to a New York Giants team that reportedly intends to rest its starters. It makes sense to prioritize their health and play it safe with whatever starters are banged up. They should be able to handle the hapless Cardinals even without a few key players: the 49ers are colossal 14-point favorites to pick up a win.