Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers has taken a significant step in his recovery from Achilles tendinitis by returning to practice. The team has opened his 21-day practice window, allowing him time to be activated from injured reserve.

There is optimism that he could play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers if his practice goes well. Coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated that McCaffrey's workload will depend on his performance in practice.