In 1999, a little 2-year-old boy wore his oversized dad’s jersey on the field to celebrate the Denver Broncos’ win over the Falcons. His smile, his happiness, and seeing his father as an idol, told everything about why he would go on to choose his father’s path. Now, 26 years later, Christian McCaffrey is a well-established running back, who is a key player for the San Francisco 49ers.

Christian McCaffrey’s father, Ed McCaffrey, was also a pro-footballer, who played for the New York Giants, 49ers, and Broncos until his retirement in 2004. However, despite leaving the game, 21 years later, he was suddenly reminded of his playing days. Why? Thanks to the Stick!

On Friday, Christian McCaffrey’s father shared a story on his official Instagram account. This new update featured a picture of Candlestick Park which was an outdoor stadium on the West Coast of the United States. However, this place, which was located in SF’s Hunters Point area, isn’t functioning now. But guess what? During its functional time, Ed McCaffrey played there. Hence, sharing it with his 37.5k followers, he is feeling nostalgic.

Originally shared by OursSF49ers on X with a caption, “Feeling nostalgic: Long live The Stick,” Ed made sure to express his feelings too. In the story caption, Christian McCaffrey’s dad wrote: “Long Live The Stick! Blessed to have played in the only @nfl stadium whose field combined a soggy bottom with a rock-hard infield. It was… GLORIOUS!”

Ed holds a special place in his heart for the Stick, even though two of his three Super Bowl victories came in Miami and the other in California. The stadium was home to the 49ers from 1971 to 2013, making every moment meaningful. In 1994, CMC’s father, Ed, spent a season with the 49ers. So, during his 13-year NFL career as a wide receiver (1991-2003), Ed was fortunate to have played at this 49ers’s iconic home, a memory he cherishes to this day. So, what was special about this ground?

Well, Candlestick Park wasn’t just any stadium. It had character, history, and a design that made it stand out. Sure, it was home to both the 49ers and the Giants (MLB), but that’s where the similarities with other stadiums ended. Its oval structure, built in stages since the 1950s, could hold over 61,000 fans. The stands even moved to switch between football and baseball. But for players? It was brutal. The artificial turf in the 70s was unforgiving – injuries were almost guaranteed. And the wind? Ah, a total nightmare.

Swirling gusts from the Bay turned simple kicks into impossible challenges. That’s why a fan shared their experience by saying, “You’d burn in the sun and freeze in the shade. Took 2 hours to get out of the parking lot. Love that stadium.” Its specialty as well as old memories make it forever fresh, despite the stadium having its last event in 2014, ending with a concert by Paul McCartney.

While Christian McCaffrey’s NFL star dad was hit with nostalgia like a truck, the RB is focused on the future – especially with his growing family this offseason. His wife, Olivia Culpo, is pregnant. But the journey hasn’t been easy.

Pregnancy isn’t that easy for Christian McCaffrey and his wife

Olivia Culpo and her husband, Christian McCaffrey, tied the knot in June 2024 after dating for more than four years. And now, the former Miss Universe is pregnant with their child. Generally, this phase brings a lot of happiness for a couple and their families. But for the two, this journey isn’t that easy.

Christian McCaffrey’s wife recently opened up about her pregnancy complications. In an emotional TikTok video, Olivia shared how what should’ve been a joyful time quickly turned into a nightmare. It all started when she got sick with pneumonia, leaving her weak and bedridden for two weeks. Just when she thought she was getting better, something even scarier happened – she started “bleeding everywhere.”

Doctors told Olivia that she had a subchorionic hematoma, a blood clot in her uterus. Hence, Christian McCaffrey’s wife was put on strict bed rest, unable to travel or even move around much. The only thing keeping her going was hearing her baby’s strong heartbeat at a check-up. That sound gave her hope!

With the help of progesterone treatments, Olivia Culpo fought through the toughest weeks. Now, she’s just grateful. Grateful her baby is still growing! Grateful she made it through!! And Christian McCaffrey’s partner is sharing her story to let other women know they’re not alone. The offseason is bringing many challenges and memories for the McCaffrey family. We’re sure they’ll tide over them with their usual grit and determination!