Uncertainty surrounding injuries, position battles persist as 49ers camp closes SANTA CLARA — The San Francisco 49ers concluded their summer training camp on Tuesday, marking the final full practice session before their preseason finale against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday night. With the team set to trim its roster to 53 players in the coming week and prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia, the 49ers’ final days of camp highlighted both standout performances and lingering questions about key positions. Quarterback Brock Purdy and linebacker Fred Warner remained the team’s top performers throughout the 4 1/2-week training period, but several other players made strong cases for recognition. Wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling, the 49ers’ second-round draft pick, emerged as a standout with his ability to make contested catches and hold onto the ball under pressure. On Tuesday’s final practice, Stribling showcased his skills by securing a firm over-the-shoulder catch against cornerback Jack Jones and safety Marques Sigle, a play that exemplified his summer performance. The rookie led the team with 11 catches for 109 yards in two preseason games, and coach Kyle Shanahan praised his readiness, noting that Stribling had been “where we expected him to be” despite the team’s initial plan to limit his usage with Ricky Pearsall sidelined due to a season-ending knee injury. Defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa also made a strong impression, earning praise as the 49ers’ best defensive lineman and a top contender for the best player on the defense. Acquired in an offseason trade with the Dallas Cowboys, Odighizuwa’s relentless effort during practices frustrated the offensive line and elevated the team’s defensive performance.#las_vegas_raiders #san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #de_zhaun_stribling #osa_odighizuwa
Former Hoosier RB Could Be Thrusted Into Starting NFL Role Sooner Than Expected The Indiana Hoosiers set a program record by having eight players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, including running back Kaelon Black, who was chosen by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round with the 90th overall pick. Black, a key contributor to Indiana’s National Championship season, played a pivotal role in the Hoosier backfield alongside Roman Hemby. The duo formed one of the nation’s top 1-2 rushing combinations, with both exceeding the 1,000-yard mark. Black led the team with 10 rushing touchdowns and averaged 5.6 yards per carry, showcasing his ability to make an impact in high-pressure games. Now in his first NFL training camp with the 49ers, Black is positioning himself for a significant role. The team’s starting running back, Christian McCaffrey, has been sidelined due to ongoing injury concerns. McCaffrey, a four-time Pro Bowler and 2023 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, has struggled with physical “tightness” and has missed several practices. This has created an opportunity for Black to step into the spotlight. NBC Sports reported that Black is currently participating in first-team reps in the 49ers’ backfield, a clear indication of his rising status within the organization. McCaffrey’s absence has raised questions about Black’s readiness to assume a starting role. While an official timeline for McCaffrey’s return has not been disclosed, head coach Kyle Shanahan described the injury as “not serious” and emphasized that McCaffrey is being held out of practice for precautionary reasons. The 49ers aim to have McCaffrey healthy for the season opener on September 10 against the Rams in Australia.#san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #christian_mccaffrey #kaelon_black #roman_hemby
Chargers' Mike McDaniel Aims for 'Year 2 Results in Year 1' with Justin Herbert New Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is setting ambitious expectations for quarterback Justin Herbert, aiming to achieve the performance typically seen in a player’s second season during his first campaign. McDaniel, who previously served as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, emphasized that the transition to his system—characterized by quick-game passes, motion, and intricate footwork—requires a different approach than the traditional learning curve for new quarterbacks. He pointed to historical examples, such as Tua Tagovailoa’s rapid development under Kyle Shanahan in Miami and Matt Ryan’s Year 2 MVP season with the Falcons, as evidence that success in his offense often materializes earlier than expected. McDaniel’s philosophy centers on pushing Herbert beyond the standard timeline for adapting to a new scheme. During a press conference with ESPN’s Kris Rhim, the coordinator praised Herbert’s progress, calling him “everything that I’d hoped and more.” He noted that the quarterback is “far past where quarterbacks are usually in Year 1,” a claim supported by Herbert’s offseason dedication to mastering the offense’s specific mechanics. Earlier this offseason, Herbert had taken time away from practice to focus on refining the footwork and throwing techniques required for McDaniel’s system. This commitment has allowed Herbert to integrate the playbook more seamlessly, a critical factor in the Chargers’ push to compete in the AFC West. The offensive coordinator’s approach also involves significant adjustments to the team’s playbook. McDaniel has implemented a greater emphasis on quick-game passes and motion, which demand precise timing and chemistry between players.#los_angeles_chargers #miami_dolphins #kyle_shanahan #justin_herbert #mike_mcdaniel
Mike Evans Makes Surprising Move to 49ers After 12 Seasons with Buccaneers Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans has made a significant shift in his NFL career, leaving the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after 12 seasons to join the San Francisco 49ers. The move, which came in the form of a three-year, $42.4 million contract, marked one of the league’s most notable trades of the offseason. Evans, who had spent his entire professional career with the Buccaneers, cited personal and professional reasons for the decision, emphasizing his desire for a fresh start while acknowledging his deep ties to Tampa. In an interview with KNBR, Evans explained his departure, stating, “I felt like it’s what I needed at this point in my career. I love Tampa. Been there my whole career, 12 seasons. Love the fanbase, love the people in the front office, my teammates. But just felt like it was time for a change, and this team is definitely, feel like it’s rejuvenized me and potentially added some years on my career.” He highlighted the 49ers’ competitive environment as a key factor, noting, “It was like self-explanatory. I mean, they had everything I was looking for. They checked all the boxes. Try to win now. Quarterback, great skilled players, great defense, great coaching staff, and then just great organization. And then a bonus is the weather that I didn’t even know about.” Evans further praised the 49ers’ roster, calling it one of the best teams he has been part of. “I’ve been around some great teams, and this stacks up there with one of the best teams I’ve been a part of. Obviously, we have to go out there and prove it… This stacks up right there, and hopefully we can accomplish what I accomplished with that team.#san_francisco_49ers #mike_evans #tampa_bay_buccaneers #kyle_shanahan #texas_am
Kyle Shanahan's Recent Concussion Changes His Perspective on Head Injuries Kyle Shanahan, the head coach of the 49ers, has expressed a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by athletes dealing with concussions after sustaining a severe head injury himself in a July 11 automobile accident. During his first training-camp press conference following the incident, Shanahan reflected on how his personal experience has shifted his approach to addressing player injuries. He emphasized that his concussion has made him more empathetic to the struggles of athletes who suffer from brain trauma, highlighting the gap between the public perception of sports-related concussions and the severity of accidents like the one he endured. Shanahan’s comments underscored the importance of distinguishing between mild and severe concussions, a distinction he now recognizes as less clear-cut. He acknowledged that players often downplay their injuries, with some attempting to hide symptoms or even manipulate baseline cognitive tests to expedite their return to play. This practice, he noted, can lead to underreporting of injuries and a lack of proper evaluation. Shanahan expressed concern over players who might feel pressured to return too soon, emphasizing the need for patience and adherence to medical protocols. He also referenced Peyton Manning’s past admission of manipulating baseline tests, though Manning later retracted the statement as a joke. The incident has prompted Shanahan to advocate for a more informed and supportive approach to concussion management. He acknowledged the NFL’s increased focus on brain health since Congress intervened in 2009, which led to stricter protocols for identifying and addressing concussions. While he praised the league’s efforts, he also noted that lapses in the concussion-spotting process still occur.#nfl #kyle_shanahan #peyton_manning #49ers #concussion
Kyle Shanahan Addresses Car Accident, Injury Status Ahead of Preseason Opener Kyle Shanahan, the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, addressed questions about his recent car accident for the first time since the team’s training camp began. The incident, which occurred on July 14, left the 46-year-old coach with a range of injuries, including a concussion, three broken ribs, and a fractured left hand. Despite his condition, Shanahan confirmed he is “roughly at full strength” and plans to coach during the team’s preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans on Thursday. Shanahan revealed that he has adjusted his coaching responsibilities to focus on recovery, reducing some of his usual duties. He emphasized the importance of maintaining his routine, which includes reviewing game footage extensively and spending time analyzing plays after training sessions. “I try not to come in here every single day because I feel like, if I did, I wouldn’t be able to pull off my normal routine,” he said, citing the physical toll of his injuries. The accident, which involved his Tesla Model S, occurred when Shanahan was using the vehicle’s autopilot feature. He explained that he had dropped his phone and briefly taken his eyes off the road, leading to the crash. While he has used autopilot for nine years and considers himself “pretty comfortable” with the technology, he remains uncertain whether the accident was caused by a malfunction or if he inadvertently disabled the system while retrieving his phone. “Anytime you cause an accident that can be avoided, you feel pretty stupid, especially when you have a chance to hurt someone else,” he said. Shanahan clarified the circumstances of the crash during a private meeting with reporters late last month.#san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #tennessee_titans #tesla_model_s #nfc_titles
Kyle Shanahan nears full strength, plans to coach preseason opener San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is making progress in his recovery following a July 14 car crash that left him with a concussion, three broken ribs, and a broken left hand. While not yet fully back to his usual coaching duties, Shanahan has been close to returning to full capacity and intends to coach the team’s preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans on Thursday. The crash, which occurred in Palo Alto, California, involved Shanahan’s Tesla Model S and a 21-year-old female driver. Shanahan revealed that he had been using the vehicle’s autopilot feature when his phone fell under his seat, causing him to take his eyes off the road. He admitted the accident was his fault, emphasizing that drivers must remain attentive even when relying on autopilot. “You can’t take your eyes off the road. It’s a partnership, driving, you don’t just turn it over to a computer,” he said. The incident has prompted Shanahan to reflect on the importance of driver responsibility. Despite his physical injuries, which have largely healed, Shanahan’s recovery has been complicated by lingering concussion symptoms. He has been wearing a cast on his left hand and has avoided activities that exacerbate his headaches and fatigue. “My head feels so much better,” he said, though he acknowledged that concussions can have prolonged effects. “All the things I really deal with now is just headaches and fatigue, but that’s why I’m not always exactly in the same routine.” Shanahan’s return to coaching has been gradual. He has delegated some responsibilities to assistant head coach Chris Foerster and coordinators Klay Kubiak (offense), Raheem Morris (defense), and Brant Boyer (special teams).#san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #tesla_model_s #chris_foerster #palo_alto_california
San Francisco 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan Suffers Injuries in Car Accident San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan was involved in a car accident last week, sustaining several injuries that are not life-threatening, the team announced on Saturday. The incident occurred on July 14 near his home in northern California, where his vehicle collided with an SUV. Shanahan, 46, was taken to a local hospital by paramedics and spent most of the day there before being released. The other driver involved in the crash was not injured, according to Palo Alto police. Shanahan’s injuries include a broken nose, three fractured ribs, a broken hand, over 40 stitches to his face, and a severe concussion. Doctors have advised him to avoid participating in training camp activities until he is free of concussion symptoms. The 49ers’ training camp is set to begin on Sunday. In a statement, the team confirmed that assistant head coach Chris Foerster, along with several coordinators, will assume head-coaching responsibilities during Shanahan’s recovery. The 49ers organization expressed gratitude to first responders for their efforts. A statement from the team read: “Coach Shanahan will participate in team activities on a limited basis at the start of training camp while he recovers. Coach Shanahan and the 49ers organization would like to sincerely thank all first responders involved for their efforts and care.” General manager John Lynch is scheduled to meet with reporters on Saturday afternoon to discuss the situation. Shanahan reportedly informed the 49ers’ assistant coaches of the accident on Tuesday. He has been recovering at home and is reportedly in good condition, though medical clearance for full participation in training camp is pending.#san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #john_lynch #chris_foerster #palo_alto
San Francisco 49ers Coach Kyle Shanahan to Participate in Training Camp on Limited Basis Following Car Crash San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan sustained significant injuries in a car crash on July 14, which has left him unable to fully participate in training camp as the team prepares for the 2026 season. The accident occurred near his northern California home when Shanahan’s vehicle collided with an SUV. According to sources, the crash resulted in multiple injuries, including a broken nose, three fractured ribs, a broken hand, over 40 stitches to his face, and a severe concussion. Shanahan was transported to a local hospital by paramedics and spent much of the day there before being released. The other driver involved in the collision was not injured, as confirmed by Palo Alto lieutenant Nicholas Martinez. Martinez stated that neither driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol and that both were cooperative with law enforcement. However, the police did not release details about the cause of the crash or assign fault, citing standard procedures for such cases. Shanahan has been recovering at home and is reportedly healing well, though doctors have advised against full participation in training camp activities until his concussion symptoms subside. General manager John Lynch is set to hold a news conference at 1 p.m. PT on Saturday to address the situation. To manage the coaching responsibilities during Shanahan’s recovery, assistant head coach and offensive line coach Chris Foerster will take on some of his duties. Shanahan informed his assistant coaches of the accident on Tuesday, and the team gradually shared the news with players, as confirmed in a statement released by the 49ers.#los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #chris_foerster #palo_alto
49ers Agree to Contract with Robert Jones for Offensive Line Depth The San Francisco 49ers have reached an agreement with veteran offensive lineman Robert Jones, adding depth to their offensive line ahead of the 2026 season. The deal was first reported by NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, who noted the 49ers and Jones had come to terms on a contract. The move was confirmed by NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, who highlighted Jones as a “strong candidate to start” at the open left guard position for the team. Jones, 27, brings experience to the 49ers’ interior offensive line, having played in 49 games with 30 starts during his first four seasons with the Miami Dolphins. The undrafted rookie from Middle Tennessee State primarily served as left guard under former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, where he became a 17-game starter in 2024. His familiarity with McDaniel’s offensive schemes is expected to ease the transition to Kyle Shanahan’s system, which the 49ers hope will help solidify their offensive line. The Dallas Cowboys signed Jones in free agency in 2025, but he suffered a neck injury during training camp and missed the entire season. This setback limited his playing time, but his physical tools and versatility as a left guard make him an attractive option for the 49ers. With the team looking to rebuild its offensive line, Jones’ arrival addresses a critical need. The 49ers have made several changes to their offensive line this offseason, including letting go of Spencer Burford in free agency and failing to re-sign Ben Bartch, the Week 1 starter at left guard in 2025. Bartch was sidelined by injury early in the season, and rookie Connor Colby, a seventh-round pick, struggled to step in. Burford eventually took over the starting role, but the lack of depth has been a concern.#san_francisco_49ers #miami_dolphins #kyle_shanahan #dallas_cowboys #robert_jones
San Francisco 49ers and Kicker Eddy Pineiro Agree to Four-Year, $17 Million Contract San Francisco 49ers kicker Eddy Pineiro has reached an agreement with the team on a four-year, $17 million contract that includes $10 million in guaranteed money, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. The deal marks a reward for Pineiro’s standout 2025 season, during which he solidified his status as one of the league’s top kickers. Pineiro joined the 49ers after the team waived kicker Jake Moody just one game into the 2025 season. Taking over the kicking duties in Week 2, Pineiro quickly became a reliable force for the 49ers, contributing to their success under head coach Kyle Shanahan. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout the season, the team secured another postseason berth, with Pineiro playing a key role in their efforts. In 2025, the 30-year-old kicker converted 28 of 29 field goals, including six of seven from 50 yards or more, while also making 34 of 38 extra points. These performances earned him the league lead in field goal accuracy at 96.6%, a testament to his consistency and skill. Over his career, Pineiro has maintained an impressive 89.7% field goal conversion rate (139 of 155) and a 91.5% extra point accuracy (150 of 164). The 49ers have expressed confidence in Pineiro’s ability to remain their primary kicker for the foreseeable future. His performance in the Bay Area has not only bolstered the team’s special teams unit but also provided stability in a position that is critical to playoff success. Pineiro’s new contract reflects the team’s recognition of his value and the impact he has made during his time with the 49ers. As the 49ers look to build on their 2025 accomplishments, Pineiro’s presence on the field is expected to be a key factor in their continued competitiveness.#ian_rapoport #san_francisco_49ers #nfl_network #eddy_pineiro #kyle_shanahan
The San Francisco 49ers are likely to make a decision on whether to trade quarterback Mac Jones by the end of the week, as general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan seek clarity ahead of the 2026 NFL free agency period. While both have expressed confidence in keeping Jones as the backup to Brock Purdy, the team’s need for draft picks and roster flexibility has created pressure to resolve the situation before the legal tampering period begins on March 9. Jones, who stepped in for an injured Purdy in 2025 and led the 49ers to a 5-3 record, remains a key asset for the team. However, his role as a backup has not deterred speculation about a potential trade. NFL teams often move backups to secure draft capital or upgrade their quarterback depth, and the 49ers are no exception. With holes to fill across the roster, the 49ers may prioritize acquiring additional draft picks or addressing positional needs through a trade. Recent history shows that teams frequently finalize trades around the same time frame. For example, the Seahawks traded Geno Smith to the Raiders on March 7, 2025, while the Patriots moved Mac Jones to the Jaguars on March 10, 2024. These deals typically occur before free agency begins, allowing teams to structure their rosters without interference from free agent signings. A trade this week would also give the 49ers time to evaluate whether to pursue a veteran quarterback like Zach Wilson or wait for the draft. If the 49ers decide to trade Jones, they could receive a second- or third-round draft pick, which might influence their approach to free agency. By moving Jones early, the team could avoid spending cap space on a veteran backup and instead focus on addressing other needs during the draft.#san_francisco_49ers #kyle_shanahan #mac_jones #john_lync #brock_purdy
