The San Francisco 49ers are officially gearing up for the return of running back Christian McCaffrey.
While they haven’t officially activated McCaffrey off IR, they did make a roster move Friday to clear a 53-man roster spot for the reigning Offensive Player of the Year.
The 49ers on Friday announced running back Patrick Taylor was waived.
McCaffrey’s return lessens the need for RB depth in San Francisco.
The roster move to officially activate McCaffrey will likely occur Saturday before the 49ers visit the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay.
Officially, the San Francisco 49ers are preparing for Christian McCaffrey’s comeback.
They moved players on the roster Friday to make room for the defending Offensive Player of the Year, even though they haven’t formally activated McCaffrey off IR.
Running back Patrick Taylor was waived, the 49ers announced on Friday. Since McCaffrey is getting the spot, it is likely that no corresponding move was announced.
Taylor mostly contributed on special teams after joining the 49ers in the offseason. As RB Jordan Mason struggled with a shoulder injury, he ultimately saw some offensive action. Taylor recorded 21 snaps in Weeks 6 and 8, including seven carries for 25 yards and one catch for 12 yards.
San Francisco doesn’t need as much RB depth now that McCaffrey is back. Both Mason and rookie running back Isaac Guerendo will support him.
Taylor rejoining the 49ers’ practice squad to serve as internal depth would not be shocking because they don’t have a running back on that roster.
Prior to the 49ers’ trip to Tampa Bay to play the Buccaneers on Saturday, McCaffrey will probably be officially activated by a roster move. McCaffrey’s Achilles tendinitis has kept him out of action for the entire season. His window for practice opened on Monday, and Week 10 is when he is anticipated to play.
