The 49ers Are Dealing With Injuries To 2 Key Players

The San Francisco 49ers had a fairly auspicious start to their preseason schedule on Friday, as they defeated the Green Bay Packers, 28-21.

The contest was notable for it being Trey Lance‘s first as the team’s full-time starter at quarterback, and he didn’t disappoint.

But injuries are a part of the NFL, especially during the preseason, when players aren’t quite in top shape yet, and the 49ers are no exception to that rule.

The team is currently dealing with injuries to two of its key contributors, and it could impact what happens the rest of the preseason and even its plans for Week 1 of the regular season.

Jimmie Ward

Jimmie Ward has been San Francisco’s starting free safety for the past several seasons, and while he hasn’t made the Pro Bowl in his eight pro seasons, he is an important part of head coach Kyle Shanahan’s defense.

On Monday, he suffered a hamstring injury during a team practice, and it wasn’t a minor strain.

It is significant enough to keep him out of the rest of preseason, and he may even miss the regular season opener versus the Chicago Bears.