49ers Starter Suffers Calf Injury During Practice
Another injury has struck the San Francisco 49ers, this time affecting their star cornerback, Deommodore Lenoir. This marks the seventh player injury during a Thursday practice this season.
Injury Details
During Thursday’s intense practice, Lenoir suffered a calf injury while jogging. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury and listed Lenoir as questionable for the upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Implications for the Team
The 49ers are already navigating a series of injuries. Lenoir did not participate in Friday’s walkthrough, raising concerns about his availability for Sunday’s game. Injuries to calf muscles can potentially lead to Achilles problems if not properly managed.
Previous Injuries
- Christian McCaffrey
- Jordan Watkins
- Yetur Gross-Matos
- Alfred Collins
- Kalia Davis
- Keion White
These injuries highlight a growing concern regarding the team’s practice intensity. Thursday practices are the only sessions where 49ers practice with pads, making them particularly demanding. With injuries occurring frequently during these sessions, it is essential for Coach Shanahan to reconsider their approach.
Upcoming Matchup Against the Cardinals
The Cardinals face their own injury challenges, missing key players such as their top wide receiver and starting quarterback. If Lenoir cannot play, the 49ers will struggle defensively, potentially missing not only Lenoir but also key players like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.
Potential Replacements
If Lenoir is sidelined, Darrell Luter Jr. is expected to step in. Luter possesses the necessary height and speed to hold his own against Arizona’s less formidable receiving corps.
Looking Ahead
The 49ers face a favorable schedule, with their next three opponents—Arizona, Carolina, and Cleveland—not known for strong passing games. This provides an opportunity for the coaching staff to be cautious with Lenoir’s recovery. A strategic approach may allow Lenoir to return by early December to aid in the team’s playoff aspirations.
Injuries are an unfortunate aspect of professional sports, yet those sustained during practice could be preventable. Continued high-intensity practices may exacerbate an already fragile roster. Balancing intensity with player safety will be crucial moving forward for the 49ers.
