He’s back.

Kyle Shanahan said Thursday KNBR’s “Tolbert & Copes” that he fully expects 49ers All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey to make his debut in the 2024 NFL season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.

“I feel good, somehow. It’s been a good two days,” Shanahan said. “I’m just messing around, but he’s been great the last couple of days and I hope it continues to go well. I hope to get him out.

“You never know if there’s a setback or anything, but it’s been a great two days and I expect to see it there.”

McCaffrey missed San Francisco’s first eight games while recovering from Achilles tendonitis in both legs. He traveled abroad in late September to receive treatment on both Achilles tendons before being put on a conservative program to improve his fitness.

After experiencing no setbacks in his physical therapy over the past month, the 49ers on Monday I opened the training window for McCaffrey and designated him for removal from the injured reserve list.

He practiced this week for the first time since September 12 — and the energy on and off the field had an impact.

He’s baaaaack pic.twitter.com/29rETUJmzo

– 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) November 4, 2024

Here is this man pic.twitter.com/lnA7SpWfSY

– 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) November 4, 2024

After being a little upset before the Week 9 bye week, Shanahan hoped the extended break would give his guys time to heal and rest. And it seems like this break was exactly what they needed, with their reigning Offensive Player of the Year set to make his return.

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