San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has returned to practice, marking a significant step in his recovery from Achilles tendinitis. The team has opened his 21-day practice window, allowing him time to be activated from injured reserve. Optimism surrounds his potential return for the upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contingent on his performance in practice this week.

• McCaffrey's return to practice is a positive sign for the 49ers as they look to reintegrate him into the lineup.
• The team is optimistic about his availability for the next game, depending on his practice performance.