The San Francisco 49ers face a significant challenge in the coming weeks, as two of their key players, one on each side of the ball, will be out of action due to hamstring injuries, according to coach Kyle Shanahan.
Key Losses in the Line
Center Jake Brendel and defensive end Bryce Huff will miss at least a couple of weeks due to these injuries. Shanahan confirmed that Brendel suffered the injury in a recent game, while Huff was injured on one of the last defensive plays of the same match.
Jake Brendel has a hamstring issue. He is expected to miss a couple of weeks and we also found out that Bryce Huff also has a hamstring issue. He will also be in the same situation, possibly a couple of weeks.
Huff’s absence is especially notable, as it came after one of his best performances since he joined the team. However, with the absences of Bosa and Yetur Gross-Matos, the 49ers are left with a reduced group of available defensive ends.
Given this situation, the 49ers could consider trade options before the November 4 deadline.
Regarding Brendel’s situation, his injury occurred midway through the second quarter. Matt Hennessy, a veteran, replaced him in the game and will continue in that role.
Shanahan indicated that Hennessy “wasn’t perfect” in the offensive line communication, but that “he did very well”.
Cornerback Renardo Green also left Sunday’s game with a toe injury and will be evaluated day-to-day this week.
In other injury news, quarterback Brock Purdy (right big toe) and receiver Ricky Pearsall (right knee) will also be evaluated this week. Shanahan offered no certainty about the return of either player against the Houston Texans.
Shanahan added that offensive lineman Spencer Burford, who has been out the last five games with a knee injury, could open his 21-day practice window this week.
