The San Francisco 49ers are facing significant injury challenges as they head into the next phase of the season. Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave has sustained a partially torn right triceps during the recent loss to the Los Angeles Rams, requiring surgery that will likely sideline him for the remainder of the 2024 season. Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed concern over the loss, noting that Hargrave had his best game of the season prior to the injury, effectively impacting the quarterback performance.
In addition to Hargrave’s injury, quarterback Brock Purdy is dealing with back soreness. Although an MRI showed no major issues, he is currently considered day-to-day. Running back Christian McCaffrey has traveled to Germany to consult a specialist regarding his ongoing Achilles tendonitis, which has kept him on injured reserve since mid-September.
Initially, there was hope that Hargrave had merely bruised his triceps, but further imaging confirmed the tear, necessitating repair. This season, Hargrave had contributed with seven tackles and one sack over three games. The 49ers may promote players from their practice squad, such as Evan Anderson or T.Y. McGill, to fill Hargrave’s position. There are also potential starters on the active roster, with Kevin Givens and Jordan Elliott being options, alongside end Yetur Gross-Matos who could shift inside during passing plays.
Shanahan suggested there is a slim chance Hargrave could return, contingent upon a deep playoff run. He noted that recovery from surgery typically requires several months, so any potential return would be late in the postseason.
McCaffrey, who has been sidelined by both a calf injury and Achilles problems, is expected to miss at least four games since being placed on injured reserve, and he cannot return until at least October 10 against the Seattle Seahawks.
The team did receive some positive news, as Shanahan indicated that tight end George Kittle, who has been out with a hamstring injury, could return to practice this week. Additionally, cornerback Charvarius Ward is cleared to play.
After experiencing relatively good injury luck during their Super Bowl run last year, the 49ers are grappling with a drastically different situation this season. Shanahan acknowledged the difficulties faced so far but remains hopeful that the injured players will eventually return to the lineup.