Injury Updates for 49ers Ahead of Wild-Card Game
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers have not ruled out several key players dealing with injuries as they prepare for their NFC wild-card matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday.
Among the six players listed as questionable are left tackle Trent Williams (hamstring), wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee, ankle), and linebacker Dee Winters (ankle). The other three questionable players include linebacker Luke Gifford (quad), defensive lineman Keion White (groin), and cornerback Renardo Green (foot).
Not all questionable statuses carry the same weight. Williams, who injured his hamstring during a December 28 game against the Chicago Bears, has shown signs of improvement this week, having been a limited participant in practices. Conversely, Pearsall and Winters did not practice at all. Williams expressed confidence in his chances of playing on Sunday, calling himself a game-time decision.
Coach Kyle Shanahan was asked about the potential for Pearsall and Winters to be benched for a regular season game compared to the playoffs, but he refrained from making a definitive statement, indicating he saw no difference between the two contexts.
The injury situation leaves the 49ers particularly vulnerable at the linebacker position. With middle linebacker Fred Warner already sidelined, if Winters and Gifford are also unable to play, San Francisco will likely turn to veterans Eric Kendricks and Garret Wallow.
As the 49ers finalize their travel plans to Philadelphia, the team is taking full advantage of the week to prepare, which Shanahan noted has been beneficial after a congested schedule. They are hoping for a successful outcome against the Eagles, setting the stage for their playoff journey.
