The San Francisco 49ers faced a significant setback in their linebacker corps following their recent defeat to the Seattle Seahawks, as Tatum Bethune has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a torn groin. Additionally, the team may be without Dee Winters (ankle) and Luke Gifford (quadriceps) for their crucial wild-card playoff matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, a team known for its strong running game.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the team’s injury situation in a Monday conference call, indicating that while there is a possibility of defensive leader Fred Warner returning from injured reserve—having undergone ankle surgery in October—it would depend on the team’s success in the playoffs. “I think it’s too far off right now,” Shanahan remarked, noting it won’t be a focus until the team is closer to potentially playing in a championship game.
With Bethune sidelined, the 49ers are set to rely on Eric Kendricks, whom they signed in late November, as their fourth middle linebacker this season. Kendricks, a seasoned 11-year veteran, will be critical in calling defensive plays and organizing the unit before the snap. Shanahan expressed confidence in Kendricks’ abilities given his recent involvement in games.
Winters and Gifford’s statuses are uncertain as they continue to be evaluated throughout the week. Should Winters be unable to participate against the Eagles, either Curtis Robinson or Garret Wallow may step into the weakside linebacker role. The team also has the option to elevate Jalen Graham from the practice squad to bolster their linebacker depth.
In addition to these issues, Shanahan reported three more defensive injuries. Lineman Keion White is dealing with a hamstring issue that will be assessed, while safety Ji’Ayir Brown (ribs) and lineman Kalia Davis (knee tendinitis) are being monitored daily for their conditions.
On the offensive side, tackle Trent Williams (hamstring) and receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) will also be evaluated throughout the week after missing the game against the Seahawks, but are reportedly nearing a return. Furthermore, Shanahan announced that receiver Jacob Cowing would open his practice window and participate in Wednesday’s session after battling hamstring injuries since training camp.
Quarterback Brock Purdy has been cleared to play, demonstrating resilience after suffering a stinger in his shoulder and injuring his thumb during the Seahawks game.
As the 49ers prepare for their playoff opener, the team remains hopeful and is looking to overcome these challenges to advance deeper into the postseason.