The San Francisco 49ers are grappling with a series of injuries as they head into a challenging stretch of the NFL season. Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave is facing surgery for a partially torn right triceps, an injury sustained during the team’s recent loss to the Los Angeles Rams, which is expected to sideline him for the remainder of the 2024 season. Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed concern, noting that Hargrave had been performing exceptionally well and was a significant contributor on the field.
Additionally, quarterback Brock Purdy is dealing with back soreness but has reportedly received a clean MRI and is considered day-to-day. Running back Christian McCaffrey has traveled to Germany for a consultation regarding ongoing Achilles tendonitis, which has hindered his season after being placed on injured reserve.
The team had initially hoped Hargrave’s injury would be minor, but further evaluations confirmed the severity. With Hargrave out, the 49ers may promote one of their practice squad players, such as Evan Anderson or T.Y. McGill. Active roster options include Kevin Givens and Jordan Elliott, with the possibility of defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos shifting inside on passing plays. Kalia Davis is also close to returning from his knee injury but is not expected to be back this week.
Shanahan did mention there is a slim chance of Hargrave returning if the team makes a deep playoff run, although recovery from surgery typically takes months. Meanwhile, McCaffrey must sit out a minimum of four games due to his placement on injured reserve, meaning he will miss upcoming matchups against the New England Patriots and the Arizona Cardinals. His potential return could be on October 10 against the Seattle Seahawks, but Shanahan noted the unpredictability of McCaffrey’s situation.
In a somewhat favorable update, Shanahan indicated that tight end George Kittle may return to practice this week, and cornerback Charvarius Ward is also expected to be ready for action. The 49ers have experienced a tougher luck with injuries this season compared to their previous Super Bowl run, which has posed significant challenges for the team’s depth and performance.