SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The San Francisco 49ers face significant challenges in their roster heading into the playoffs, especially at the linebacker position.
Key Losses at the Linebacker Position
49ers coach Kyle Shanahan announced that Tatum Bethune, who replaced Fred Warner after his injury, will miss the postseason due to a groin injury. This absence adds to the already expected absence of Warner, who is expected to return in a couple of weeks. With Bethune out of the game, the team awaits Warner’s return, although it won’t be this week in the NFC wild card game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Eric Kendricks will be the fourth linebacker in the center of the field to start this season.Kendricks joined the 49ers on November 26, and has played a significant role in the final games of the regular season. Warner, for his part, is focused on his rehabilitation with the hope of returning for the playoffs. Although the team could need him soon, Shanahan indicated that it is not yet time to open his practice window, although he does not rule out his return later in the postseason. In addition to Bethune’s injury, the 49ers have other concerns at the linebacker position. Dee Winters is dealing with an ankle injury and Luke Gifford has quadriceps issues. Shanahan will evaluate Winters and Gifford during the week, which could mean they miss practice time and possibly Sunday’s game against Philadelphia. In the event that Winters and Gifford are unavailable, Robinson and Garret Wallow, who was claimed from the Denver Broncos, could take their places. The 49ers also have Jalen Graham and Andrew Farmer II on the practice squad. Nick Martin, a third-round selection in 2025, must remain on the reserve list due to injury for at least one more week after a concussion. In other injury news, quarterback Brock Purdy (thumb and shoulder) is fine after the game against Seattle. Trent Williams (hamstrings) and Ricky Pearsall (ankle, knee) will be evaluated during the week. Keion White (hamstrings) is also in the same situation. Ji’Ayir Brown (rib) and Kalia Davis (knee tendinitis) are questionable for the game.I am very confident in Eric. He has been here long enough. He has done a good job in the games he has played in the last few weeks, and I am glad we have him for this situation.
Kyle Shanahan
