UPDATE: The San Francisco 49ers face a major setback as edge rusher Bryce Huff is expected to miss at least two weeks due to a hamstring strain. This injury was confirmed shortly after the team’s 20-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on October 29, 2023.
Huff, who played 45 snaps against Atlanta—his highest this season—reported discomfort late in the game. “I was told he felt it on the last two plays,” said head coach Kyle Shanahan during a conference call with reporters. The absence of Huff, who leads the 49ers with four sacks and six quarterback hits, is particularly concerning given that the team has already lost star edge rusher Nick Bosa to a torn ACL earlier this season.
The 49ers currently rank 25th in the NFL with just 14 sacks, and now find themselves short-staffed ahead of two critical road games against Houston and the New York Giants on November 2 and November 5, respectively. With both Huff and defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos sidelined, the team will rely on Sam Okuayinonu and rookie Mykel Williams to fill the void.
Huff’s injury comes at a time when the 49ers are exploring potential trades for additional edge rushers. Shanahan reassured fans that the front office has been actively assessing options. “I don’t think it changes the urgency of it,” he stated, emphasizing that the search for reinforcements will continue.
In addition to Huff, the 49ers will also be without center Jake Brendel, who left the Falcons game with a hamstring strain. Veteran Matt Hennessey stepped in effectively, but the team will need to monitor Brendel’s recovery closely.
The 49ers are also keeping an eye on quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) and wide receiver Ricky Pearsall Jr. (knee) as they prepare for the upcoming games. While Shanahan did not confirm Purdy’s status for the Houston game, he highlighted other injuries affecting the roster, including cornerback Renardo Green, who is day-to-day.
As the 49ers navigate these challenges, tight end George Kittle emphasized the importance of teamwork, attributing the team’s 5-2 record to the resilience of players stepping up in the face of adversity. “The way [quarterback] Mac Jones has stepped up when Brock has not been in has been incredible,” Kittle remarked, showcasing the depth and spirit of the squad.
With the trade deadline approaching on November 5, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the 49ers respond to these injuries. The team’s next challenge will be to maintain their momentum despite these setbacks as they prepare for a crucial game against Houston.
Stay tuned for further updates on Huff’s recovery and the 49ers’ roster adjustments as they seek to stay competitive in the league.
