San Francisco 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey wasn’t present for the start of OTAs this offseason.
The All-Pro RB isn’t holding out or anything, with a source telling ProFootballTalk his absence has nothing to do with his contract situation.
Still, the deal could be an issue as he’s going to make $11.8 million this year as part of the contract the team took responsibility for when they acquired him via trade. His contract does include a $200,000 workout bonus that could be thrown into the fire given that he hasn’t shown up for offseason training.
McCaffrey signed his current deal after three seasons with the Carolina Panthers. While it has a new-money average of $16 million per season, the Niners have been paying around $12 million.
Although you’d find several RBs around the league who would bite your hand off for $12 million, McCaffrey is the most important non-quarterback on the team’s offense and is paid less than receiver Deebo Samuel and tight end George Kittle.
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Christian McCaffrey was responsible for over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns last season. On the other hand, Samuel recorded 1,117 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns.
What Kyle Shanahan Had To Say About Christian McCaffrey’s Absence
$9ers head coach Kyle Shanahan didn’t delve too deeply into the absence when questioned by reporters, claiming he wasn’t too concerned while pointing out that the offseason work isn’t mandatory.
“No, just like everyone else, it is voluntary,” he said, per PFT. “I’m not too concerned about Christian. But no, he hasn’t been here.”
Receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings didn’t show up either.
“I’m not sure if that is the case on any of those guys,” Shanahan added. “I’m not throwing them all in who’s here for that reason, who’s not. But it is all voluntary, so we’ll see when it becomes mandatory.”
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