49ers Shut Down Key Players for Remainder of 2024 Season
In the aftermath of their Week 16 matchup against the Miami Dolphins, the San Francisco 49ers have confirmed that several key players will miss the final two games of the season due to injuries. With playoff contention no longer a factor, head coach Kyle Shanahan announced the decision to prioritize player health for the future.
Among those sidelined are tackle Jaylon Moore (quad strain), left guard Aaron Banks (MCL), and left tackle Trent Williams (ankle). Williams had been working toward a return after sustaining his injury in Week 11 against the Seattle Seahawks. However, Shanahan stated that Williams has not made sufficient progress. “He won’t be playing in these next two games. He hasn’t improved enough to get out there, and with our situation, we don’t see that changing,” Shanahan said.
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who exited the Dolphins game due to calf soreness, is also likely to miss the remainder of the season. While no final decision has been made, Shanahan’s “gut feeling” is that Greenlaw will not play. Greenlaw has appeared in only two games this year as he recovered from an Achilles injury sustained in Super Bowl LVIII. Shanahan noted the team will leave the decision to Greenlaw, contingent on his health.
Other injured players are being monitored ahead of Week 17:
- OL Spencer Burford (calf): Awaiting MRI results.
- S Ji’Ayir Brown (ankle): Day-to-day.
- LB Dee Winters (chest): Day-to-day.
- RB Isaac Guerendo (foot, hamstring): Trending toward a return to practice on Thursday.
The 49ers were already stretched thin after in-game injuries against the Dolphins compounded their struggles. With no postseason hopes, the team is focusing on recovery and preparing for next year. Shanahan’s decision underscores a long-term approach, ensuring players return fully healthy rather than risking further setbacks.
While 2024 didn’t go as planned for the 49ers, the team’s handling of injuries reflects their commitment to preserving the well-being of key contributors for the future. Fans will now look ahead to a healthier roster and a fresh start in the 2025 season.
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