Christian McCaffrey Talks ‘Chaotic’ Vacation Season As An NFL Participant

Because the 2025 NFL postseason attracts nearer, 49ers star Christian McCaffrey is opening up about how he and his household steadiness his hectic schedule throughout the vacation season. Throughout a brand new interview, the 29-year-old mirrored on life as a brand new father and credited his spouse, Olivia Culpo, for holding down the fort whereas he is on the highway.

Talking with PEOPLE, McCaffrey wasn’t shy when it got here to singing his spouse’s praises, particularly following the arrival of their now 5-month-old daughter, Colette McCaffrey. In accordance with the NFL star, he and Culpo work so nicely collectively as a result of they’re comparable in nature. “We each worth arduous work and perceive what it takes to do our jobs effectively,” he stated.

McCaffrey, who has been a part of the 49ers for the reason that 2022 season, additionally defined that his spouse’s help is a part of what retains him going. “The extent of understanding, humility, and teamwork applies to each household and enterprise,” he stated, calling himself “very lucky” for the union he has with Culpo, whom he married in 2024. “She actually makes my job simple, which is not simple in-season. It is a 24-hour, on-the-clock deal. I really feel fortunate she helps me the way in which she does,” he added.

This is not the primary time McCaffrey has spoken extremely about his spouse. In a earlier interview with NFL Community, McCaffrey admitted to feeling responsible when he sees Culpo “doing the soiled work.” He thanked her, although, for her unwavering dedication to him and their household.

The previous Miss Universe welcomed her daughter with the NFL standout in July 2025. “Colette is so fortunate to have the perfect daddy on this planet,” Culpo captioned an Instagram Tales image of her husband standing by her facet. “A love like no different.”

In one other snap, Culpo, 33, known as giving start to her daughter the “scariest and most rewarding of all experiences.” As quickly as McCaffrey entered the room, nonetheless, Culpo stated she “felt most at peace.”

Because the Christmas vacation approaches, McCaffrey acknowledges that their household’s traditions aren’t presently what they will all the time be. “Our lives are so hectic, particularly throughout soccer season,” he stated, noting that if he isn’t taking part in on Christmas, he is “practising [or] doing remedies,” calling it “chaotic.”

He added, “Christmas has all the time been that means for me.” Nevertheless, McCaffrey has tried to take advantage of each vacation season whereas he is within the league, one of the simplest ways he can. “We’re simply blessed if we are able to get our household collectively, that is the custom,” he stated. “As soon as I am achieved taking part in, we’ll hone in on vacation traditions, however for now, getting as many members of the family collectively is a large win.”

Whereas McCaffrey did not immediately air grievances about engaged on particular holidays, some athletes within the league are voicing their frustrations. Groups just like the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys all the time play on Thanksgiving Day, and this 12 months, the Lions will lace up their cleats on Christmas Day in opposition to the Minnesota Vikings.

In accordance with Detroit Lions beat author Kory Woods, Penei Sewell, one of many staff’s offensive linemen, expressed his disappointment together with his staff having video games on two family-centered holidays. “I’m going to be brutally sincere. I’m not completely satisfied, we have already got Thanksgiving. We already play on Thanksgiving, and the truth that we now have to play on Christmas (and) away, is one thing I wouldn’t wish to do,” he stated.