San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is taking a step back and operating in a limited role at training camp in Santa Clara, California, as he recovers from injuries sustained in a July 14 car accident, according to SI. Shanahan, who is now in his 10th season in charge, admitted that the car crash was his fault and noted that the accident report was wrong, per ESPN.
Kyle Shanahan Takes Limited Role at Training Camp After Car Accident
During practices, the head coach has been arriving midway through sessions to watch from behind the action alongside General Manager John Lynch, with defensive coordinator Raheem Morris occasionally coming over to talk, according to SI. The outlet reported that this is not a disconnected absence, and Shanahan is contributing where he can while his body heals nicely. However, his progress has not been linear, with a lingering concussion and ups and downs throughout the recovery process. While offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak carries the walkie-talkie connected to quarterback Brock Purdy’s helmet, Shanahan evaluates from a perspective resembling a personnel evaluator. Observers noted that the team is missing his team meetings the most during his absence.
Team Progress and Early Camp Standouts
The 49ers opened camp with a new closed-door jog-thru session designed to ease health issues, with six weeks remaining before kickoff in Melbourne, Australia, according to “>The Mercury News. Cornerback Renardo Green is also working to regain his footing and build confidence in Year 3 following a sophomore slump.
Running Back Workload and Position Battles
Managing running back Christian McCaffrey’s workload is a primary focus as the 49ers head into McCaffrey’s 10th NFL season following an NFL-high 413-touch showcase, according to ESPN, I don't make a big deal out of the whole age thing.
Behind McCaffrey, a competition for running back snaps has formed. Second-rounder Jordan James was previously showcasing an explosive element before fracturing a rib, an injury that has opened up opportunities for rookie running back Kaelon Black to secure a role, according to SI. Additional roster battles are underway at left guard—where Connor Colby, Brett Toth, Robert Jones, and Carver Willis are vying to replace Spencer Burford—and at cornerback, where players like Jack Jones and Renardo Green compete for playing time.
Keep reading
