San Francisco 49ers rookie defensive end Mykel Williams is out for the rest of the season due to a torn ACL in his right knee, as confirmed by head coach Kyle Shanahan. This injury comes during a tough season for the team, which has seen many key players sidelined.
Williams, the team’s first-round draft pick, got injured late in the fourth quarter during a win against the New York Giants. Initial concerns were confirmed after tests revealed both an ACL tear and damage to his lateral meniscus. While Shanahan mentioned that the injury was otherwise clean, he didn’t specify how long Williams would take to recover. He expressed optimism, saying, “It will heal great.”
At just 21 years old, Williams had a strong start to his rookie season, playing in all nine games and racking up 20 tackles, four of which were for a loss, along with one sack.
The defensive line has faced significant setbacks this year, with both starting defensive ends now out for the season due to similar injuries. Nick Bosa suffered an ACL tear earlier in the season, which has fans and players on edge about the MetLife Stadium turf, where both injuries occurred. In fact, the 49ers have a history of injuries at this venue, dating back to a game against the New York Jets in 2020.
With Bosa out and second pass rusher Bryce Huff dealing with a hamstring injury, the 49ers recently traded for defensive lineman Keion White and added Clelin Ferrell to their practice squad for depth. Ferrell contributed with a sack against the Giants, showing the team is trying to adapt quickly.
Huff is expected to return against the Los Angeles Rams, though he hasn’t started any games this season. Yetur Gross-Matos was seen as a potential replacement for Williams but was placed on injured reserve due to a recurring hamstring issue, making White the next option for the starting role.
The 49ers aren’t done making moves just yet. They are still in the market for more defensive linemen, having made inquiries after the trade for White. Reports indicate interest in players like Bradley Chubb and Matthew Judon, among others.
In terms of injuries affecting the 49ers’ offense, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk won’t start practice this week as he continues to recover from an ACL tear. However, Shanahan mentioned that receiver Ricky Pearsall and center Jake Brendel are possible returns this week, adding a glimmer of hope for the team.
As the team navigates through a sea of injuries, it’s crucial for them to adapt quickly and make the most of their roster. The upcoming trade deadline at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday will be a critical moment for the 49ers as they continue to adjust towards the second half of the season.
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