“49ers Face Major Injury Setbacks: Key Players, Including Trent Williams and Aaron Banks, Out for Final Two Games of 2024”
The San Francisco 49ers have been dealt a tough blow, with multiple players sidelined following their Week 16 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Injuries have hit the team hard, leading to the confirmation from head coach Kyle Shanahan that key players will miss the final two games of the season, especially as the team has been officially eliminated from playoff contention.
Key Players Out for the Season:
- LT Trent Williams (Ankle)
Williams, one of the league’s most dominant tackles, has been battling an ankle injury since Week 11 against the Seattle Seahawks. Despite efforts to recover, Shanahan stated that Williams hasn’t made enough progress to return.“He won’t be playing in these next two games,” Shanahan said. “We don’t see that happening, especially with the situation we’re in.”
- LG Aaron Banks (MCL)
Banks suffered an MCL injury during the Week 16 game and will also miss the remainder of the season. - T Jaylon Moore (Quad Strain)
Moore exited the Week 16 game due to a quad strain and won’t return for the final stretch.
Other Injury Concerns:
- LB Dre Greenlaw (Calf Soreness)
Greenlaw is a key defensive piece, but Shanahan noted it’s unlikely he will suit up for the last two games. Greenlaw, who has only appeared twice this season after recovering from an Achilles injury suffered in Super Bowl LVIII, is listed as “most likely out,” though the final decision will depend on his health. - RB Isaac Guerendo (Foot, Hamstring)
Guerendo is trending in the right direction and could return to practice Thursday. However, his availability remains uncertain as he deals with a hamstring issue. - OL Spencer Burford (Calf)
Burford is awaiting MRI results to assess the severity of his injury. - S Ji’Ayir Brown (Ankle)
Brown is day-to-day but may not see action in Week 17. - LB Dee Winters (Chest)
Winters is also considered day-to-day, with the team monitoring his recovery.
What This Means for the 49ers:
The injuries cap a difficult 2024 season for San Francisco. While the team started the year with playoff aspirations, the mounting injuries have significantly impacted their competitiveness. The decision to shut down key players like Williams and Banks signals the team’s focus on preserving player health and planning for the 2025 season.
Despite the setbacks, Shanahan remains optimistic about the younger players stepping up in the final games, offering opportunities for them to gain experience and showcase their potential heading into the next season.
Stay tuned for more updates as the 49ers navigate these challenges and look toward rebuilding for 2025.
