Charles Esther
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan offered an approximate return timeframe Monday for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, sidelined by serious knee injuries.
Midseason Return Expected Amid Injury Setbacks
Shanahan, while cautious about the unpredictable nature of Aiyuk’s torn ACL and MCL recovery, indicated he hopes to see Aiyuk back on the field near midseason alongside safety Malik Mustapha and quarterback Kurtis Rourke, both also recovering from ACL injuries.
Shanahan Compares Recovery Timelines of Injured Players
The coach grouped Aiyuk’s recovery with that of Mustapha and Rourke, estimating a return around Week 6 but acknowledging it could vary between Week 5 and Week 10, emphasizing the long road ahead before their comebacks.
Aiyuk Continues Team Involvement Despite Injury
Though on the physically unable to perform list due to the injury suffered late last season, Aiyuk remains active with the team during training camp, assisting receivers in practice and helping in film study sessions.
Severity of Knee Injury Extends Recovery Period
Aiyuk’s knee injury was complicated, leading to an extended rehab timeline close to a year, which has become increasingly significant given the 49ers’ ongoing struggles with injuries in their receiving corps.
Rookie Jordan Watkins Impresses Despite New Injury
Among the few healthy receivers, rookie Jordan Watkins stood out with a strong preseason showing but suffered a high ankle sprain revealed by an MRI, expected to sideline him for about a month.
Multiple Receivers Missing Practice Due to Injuries
Monday’s practice saw the absence of key receivers including Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Jacob Cowing, and Watkins—players who collectively form a significant part of the team’s depth at the position.
Uncertainty Surrounds Demarcus Robinson’s Suspension Status
Veteran receiver Demarcus Robinson is awaiting a league decision on a possible suspension after pleading no contest to a misdemeanor DUI, currently in the appeals process with no timeline provided.
Jauan Jennings Seeks Contract Extension or Trade
Jennings, dealing with a calf injury, has expressed interest in a lucrative contract extension or a trade. Shanahan noted the injury isn’t considered serious but has kept Jennings off the field recently.
49ers May Explore Free Agency Amid Receiver Shortage
With only a few receivers healthy and available for Week 1, including top draft pick Ricky Pearsall, Shanahan acknowledged the team is exploring free-agent options while balancing salary cap and long-term team needs.
