49ers coach admits Christian McCaffrey’s ‘costly’ fumble that resulted in Super Bowl loss still weighs ‘heavy’ on him

There were many reasons that cost the NFC champions, the San Francisco 49ers the Super Bowl trophy last season. But one that weighs the heaviest, even today is the star running back Christian McCaffrey’s fumble that gave the Kansas City Chiefs a shining opportunity in the red zone. 

McCaffrey, who is regarded as one of the best NFL players, made a significant contribution to the Niners’ run for the Super Bowl. However, he also committed a costly mistake leading to an embarrassing February loss. He fumbled the ball just a few yards shy from the red zone, which gave the reigning Super Bowl champion a chance to capitalize. And they sure did by defeating the 49ers in overtime. 

Although it happened months ago and the Niners are once again regarded as Super Bowl contenders for the upcoming season, that costly fumble remains afresh in the star running back’s memory. 49ers running back coach Bobby Turner recently opened up about how hard McCaffrey has been upon himself since the Super Bowl game. 

I talked to him at the same time it happened when he came off the football field because you have to. You have to be able to let it go, but it’s one of those things you take personally because it’s very important to him. The ball is everything. He is carrying this whole organization — his family, my family. He is carrying that football. It’s heavy.

Bobby Turner said, via NBC Sports

Turner also shared that he has been closely monitoring the 2023 rushing yards leader’s mental state and expressed his concerns over the long-term impact it could cause. 

Christian McCaffrey’s commitment undeterred despite offseason absence

While talking about it, the RB coach also shared how the ball scrutiny is now a frequent point of discussion for the 49ers. They often discuss it and even nicknamed the ball ‘The Duke’ in whose protection McCaffrey takes immense pride. 

McCaffrey takes immense pride in protecting it every time he has it. Unfortunately, that one time, it slipped. 

Bobby Turner added

Although McCaffrey is missing out on the team’s voluntary offseason program, coach Turner does not doubt his dedication and readiness for the upcoming season. While the 49ers prepare to face off against the New York Jets in the opening game, running back McCaffrey is aiming to put the Super Bowl misfortune behind him and set his focus straight on the Vince Lombardi trophy. 

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