Shanahan Focuses on Philadelphia Wild Card; Updates on Linebacker Injuries

San Francisco 49ers’ head coach Kyle Shanahan met with the media on Monday to discuss the team’s preparations for the upcoming Wild Card game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This follows their Week 18 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Shanahan provided insights into injury updates and linebacker depth, emphasizing the challenges posed by the defending Super Bowl champions.

Injury Report Updates

Shanahan began by discussing the injury updates from Saturday’s game.

• Linebackers Dee Winters (ankle) and Luke Gifford (quad), defensive lineman Keion White (hamstring), and safety Ji’Ayir Brown (rib) will require evaluations throughout the week.
• Brown is listed as day-to-day, while Kalia Davis (knee tendinitis) is also day-to-day.
• Linebacker Tatum Bethune has been ruled out for the season due to a groin tear, with surgery being a possibility.
• Tackle Trent Williams (hamstring) and wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee/ankle) are both under assessment, with Pearsall facing a PCL injury aggravation.
• Wide receiver Jacob Cowing is set to open his practice window on Wednesday.
• Quarterback Brock Purdy has passed evaluations following a late hit in the last game.

Confidence in Linebacker Depth

With Bethune’s absence and Winters’ uncertain status, Shanahan expressed faith in veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks stepping into a more significant role. He stated, “I’m real confident in Eric.” Shanahan highlighted Kendricks’ contributions in recent weeks, making him an asset for the team.

If Winters cannot play, options include Garret Wallow and Curtis Robinson for the weakside linebacker position. Regarding Fred Warner’s potential postseason return, Shanahan mentioned that it’s too early to consider that possibility.

Tactical Shift Toward Philadelphia

Following the Wild Card matchup announcement, Shanahan and his staff have focused on game planning against the Eagles. “We were excited that it was on a Sunday, so we can have a normal seven-day week,” said Shanahan. He acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Philadelphia’s offense and defense.

• The Eagles have a strong defense and an efficient offense.
• Shanahan noted similarities between the Eagles’ and Seahawks’ defenses, particularly regarding their effective pass rush and coverage skills.

Facing the Challenge Ahead

As postseason action begins, Shanahan reiterated the need for his team to embrace the upcoming challenges. “I don’t think we cared who we played,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to face any opponent. He pointed out that successful playoff teams must be ready for any challenge, whether against the defending champions or other competitors.

Preparing for Wild Card Week

Now fully focused on the postseason, the 49ers are gearing up for their Wild Card game at Lincoln Financial Field. With a typical practice week ahead, the team aims to refine their execution and prepare adequately for their first playoff opponent.