The San Francisco 49ers’ defensive line unit faced yet another setback this week when second-year defensive lineman Alfred Collins suffered a torn patellar tendon during practice in Melbourne. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury on Wednesday, ruling Collins out for the entire season. This marks the second significant loss to the defensive line in as many weeks, following defensive end Sam Okuayinonu’s foot fracture that also resulted in placement on injured reserve.
The defensive line has emerged as a major vulnerability for San Francisco’s defense heading into the season, plagued by both injuries and a lack of experienced depth. Beyond Collins and Okuayinonu’s injuries, Pro Bowl edge rusher Nick Bosa is returning from an ACL tear but expected to play in Week 1, while defensive end Mykel Williams will begin the season on the reserve/physically unable to perform list after his own ACL injury. Undrafted defensive tackle James Thompson Jr. did not participate in Tuesday’s practice, further straining an already thin roster.
The 49ers will enter Week 1 with limited options along their defensive front. Healthy defensive tackles Osa Odighizuwa, CJ West, and Gracen Halton are expected to shoulder significant responsibilities, with the team likely to promote a practice squad player. At defensive end, the team will rely on Bosa, Keion White, Romello Height, and Khalid Kareem to anchor the position group.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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