Deebo Samuel Out for Two Games with Shoulder Fracture: 49ers Face Challenges in Key Players’ Absence

This injury was sustained in the opening play of the previous game against Cleveland.

Deebo Samuel Out for Two Games with Shoulder Fracture: 49ers Face Challenges in Key Players' Absence
Deebo Samuel Out for Two Games with Shoulder Fracture: 49ers Face Challenges in Key Players’ Absence ( Photo: The Mercury News )

San Francisco 49ers star player Deebo Samuel will be sidelined for a minimum of two upcoming matches due to a hairline fracture in his shoulder, as confirmed by Coach Kyle Shanahan

Deebo Samuel‘s absence will be keenly felt by the 49ers (5-1), both in their Monday night clash and the subsequent home game against Cincinnati. There is optimism within the team that Deebo Samuel may stage a return post the bye week, scheduled for Nov. 12, when San Francisco faces off against Jacksonville. The option of placing Samuel on the injured reserve list, which would entail missing at least four games, is currently not being considered.

Shanahan also revealed that running back Christian McCaffrey‘s participation against Minnesota is in question after an oblique injury last week, while left tackle Trent Williams is doubtful due to a sprained ankle. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw’s status is also uncertain following a hamstring ailment that kept him out of last week’s game.

In Deebo Samuel’s absence, the team will look to Ray-Ray McCloud, Jauan Jennings, and rookie Ronnie Bell to shoulder greater responsibilities. Shanahan acknowledged the challenges of playing without Deebo Samuel, emphasizing the need for contingency plans. He expressed hope that this period of rest would enable Deebo Samuel to return to full strength.

The 49ers are also crossing their fingers for McCaffrey’s availability, as he ranks second in the NFL with 730 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns this season

Since joining the 49ers, McCaffrey has been a formidable force, averaging 114.1 yards from scrimmage with 19 touchdowns in 17 games. San Francisco has won 15 of those games, with losses only in the initial game against Kansas City shortly after his acquisition and the recent match in Cleveland where he sustained an injury.

McCaffrey’s involvement in a light practice session on Saturday was an encouraging sign. Shanahan expressed optimism but emphasized the need for McCaffrey to feel fully prepared for Monday’s game. Williams, a linchpin in San Francisco’s offensive line, could be sorely missed if Jaylon Moore, who has limited starting experience, is required to protect quarterback Brock Purdy’s blindside.

Shanahan, while acknowledging the challenge, expressed confidence in Moore’s readiness for this pivotal role. Moore has been with the team for an extended period and is poised to step up to the plate if necessary.

 

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