Here's The Knee Issue Christian McCaffrey Is Likely Dealing With

San Francisco 49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey has been limited against Saints while dealing with a left knee issue.

Based on video and the type of strap he was wearing in the second half, the former Panthers running back appears to be dealing with patellar tendinitis in his left knee.

Tendinitis can be played through, but will also be made worse by overuse.

The issue may limit his snaps down the stretch for the 49ers because it's an issue that doesn't go away. Tendonitis can be managed by limiting snaps in practice. 

His SIC score for next week is 82, indicating that the star running back may cede snaps in the Week 13 matchup against the Dolphins.

McCaffrey appeared to favor his left knee on an incompletion just before halftime.

With Elijah Mitchell ruled out with a knee injury he suffered in Sunday's win over the Saints, the 49ers may feature Jordan Mason more.

McCaffrey finished with 11 carries for 32 yards, plus 4 catches for 17 yards on 6 targets.

Since joining the 49ers, McCaffrey has averaged 52.3 rushing yards and 46.3 rushing yards per game.