Jerry Rice set numerous records throughout his illustrious NFL career, but one of his all-time milestones is in danger of being broken by a current member of the 49ers.
Christian McCaffrey has scored 20 touchdowns in the 2023 NFL season, just two shy of the 49ers franchise single-season record of 22 set by Rice in 1987.
Rice was asked by 49ers All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner during an interview on “The Warner House” podcast if he would like the record to be broken. The legendary wide receiver revealed that he hopes McCaffrrey surpasses his touchdown milestone, citing his admiration for the dynamic skills the superstar running back adds to the 49ers' offense.
“Yes – because I believe records are meant to be broken,” Rice told Warner. “What he brings to the table, I'm talking about scrimmage, rushing the ball, catching the ball, scoring touchdowns, he does it all, man, he does it all. I make sure when I go to the ball game and I'm on the field I walk across, greeting him and just interacting with the players.
“Records are meant to be broken. I’ve been very fortunate to have so many great players around me and I think the same thing happens with them.” [McCaffrey]. He is a total ball player, works very hard and is very down to earth. So it's okay, it's okay. I have quite a few records now, okay? I don't mind sharing some of these recordings.
In addition to the 49ers' single-season touchdown record, Rice holds nearly every major receiving record in NFL history, including most receiving touchdowns (197), receiving yards (22,895), and receptions (1,549).
McCaffrey's pursuit of Rice's single-season record received a significant boost in the 49ers' 45-29 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, with the All-Pro running back scoring three touchdowns in the afternoon. McCaffrey's productive performance in Arizona earned him an MVP recommendation from Brock Purdy.
In 14 games this season, McCaffrey has scored at least one touchdown in all but two. With three games remaining on the schedule, McCaffrey appears poised to write his own name in the history books by breaking Rice's prestigious mark that has stood for over 35 years.
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