In the aftermath of their thrilling victory over the New England Patriots, the San Francisco 49ers are breathing a collective sigh of relief as they assess the damage to their roster. Despite a lengthy list of injuries, head coach Kyle Shanahan is optimistic that none of the affected players will be sidelined for an extended period.
Star linebacker Fred Warner, who suffered an ankle issue in the second half of the game, underwent additional imaging on Monday and has been deemed day-to-day. Shanahan expressed relief that the diagnosis wasn’t more severe, stating, “When it says day-to-day, that gives him a chance to heal up this week.”
Warner, who had played 27 snaps and made seven tackles before exiting the game, didn’t seem overly concerned about the severity of the injury. “It was all based off of feel,” he said. “Like I said, it’d take a lot for me to tap out, so if I could have been out there, I would’ve been.”
Warner is not the only 49er who will be monitored closely this week. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk (shoulder), tight end George Kittle (ribs), defensive tackle Jordan Elliott (knee), receiver Jacob Cowing (shoulder), and receiver Chris Conley (oblique) all carry a day-to-day designation.
Meanwhile, the team may soon welcome back some reinforcements from injured reserve. Receiver Ricky Pearsall, who has missed four games after suffering a gunshot wound in an attempted robbery, is eligible to have his practice window opened. Defensive tackle Kalia Davis is also expected to return to practice soon.
Running back Christian McCaffrey, who has been dealing with tendonitis in both Achilles, will begin ramping up his rehab this week. Shanahan confirmed that McCaffrey’s condition has been bothering him, particularly in one Achilles, but expressed hope that he will soon be back on the field.
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