San Francisco 49ers Injury Report: Key Players Missing for Season Finale Against Arizona Cardinals

As the San Francisco 49ers prepare for their season finale against the Arizona Cardinals, the team is facing a significant number of absences due to injuries. However, there is some good news for the 49ers, as defensive end Nick Bosa, despite initially being sidelined due to a knee injury, has been cleared and will be available for the Week 18 matchup. This comes as a relief to the team as they look to finish off a season that, despite strong moments, has been marred by disappointment.

However, the 49ers will still be without several of their star players in this final game, including tight end George Kittle, whose status is uncertain, and wide receiver Deebo Samuel. Let’s dive deeper into the injury concerns and the key players who won’t be on the field this week.

Nick Bosa’s Return: A Silver Lining Amid Injuries

The 49ers’ defense, which has been one of the team’s strongest assets this season, will benefit from the return of Nick Bosa. The star defensive end had missed the first two practices of the week due to a knee injury, raising concerns about his availability for the season finale. However, Bosa has been cleared to play and is officially off the injury report for the matchup against the Cardinals. This is crucial for the 49ers’ defensive strategy as they look to close out their season on a high note, despite the challenges they’ve faced throughout the year.

Bosa’s return to the lineup will bring a much-needed boost to the 49ers’ pass rush and defensive front, as he has been a dominant force on the field all season long. His ability to disrupt the quarterback and make plays in the backfield will be invaluable, especially with several other key players sidelined.

George Kittle’s Status: A Question Mark for the Season Finale

While the return of Bosa is a positive development, the 49ers’ offense will face uncertainty as they head into the final game of the season without some of their star players. Tight end George Kittle, who has been a key component of the 49ers’ offensive success, is listed as questionable due to ankle and hamstring injuries. Kittle’s participation in the game will depend on how he progresses over the next few days.

If Kittle is unable to play, the 49ers will be without one of their most dynamic playmakers, and this could significantly impact quarterback Joshua Dobbs, who will be filling in for the injured Brock Purdy. Kittle’s ability to create mismatches and serve as a reliable target in both the passing game and blocking schemes is a huge asset for the 49ers, so his absence would be a major blow to the offense.

Deebo Samuel’s Injury: A Blow to the Offense

Deebo Samuel, who has been a key part of the 49ers’ offensive success, will also miss the season finale due to rib and wrist injuries. Samuel’s absence will leave a noticeable void in the 49ers’ offensive scheme, as he is one of the most versatile players on the roster, capable of contributing both as a wide receiver and a running back. With his dynamic ability to make plays after the catch and his physical style of play, Samuel is a critical part of the 49ers’ offensive identity.

The 49ers have long considered Samuel a potential cap casualty, and his injury could make his future with the team even more uncertain. Despite the trade rumors that have surrounded him since last season, head coach Kyle Shanahan has expressed confidence in Samuel’s recovery, stating that while Samuel is hurting now, he will be fine in a few weeks. “He’s hurting right now but he’ll be alright a few weeks after the season,” Shanahan said, offering some reassurance to fans and teams potentially looking to acquire the All-Pro receiver.

Joshua Dobbs: Navigating the Injury Challenges

With Brock Purdy ruled out for the season finale due to an elbow injury, quarterback Joshua Dobbs will be tasked with leading the 49ers’ offense in their final game of the year. Dobbs, who has had experience starting in place of injured quarterbacks, will be under pressure to perform well in the absence of several key offensive players.

Dobbs will also need to rely on the protection from his offensive line, which will feature new starters due to injuries. Right tackle Colton McKivitz is listed as questionable with a knee injury, and his availability will be critical for Dobbs’ success. If McKivitz is unable to play, the 49ers will turn to Charlie Heck and Austin Pleasants, both of whom were signed just last month, to start at the tackle positions. The reshuffled offensive line will need to step up and provide Dobbs with enough protection to keep the offense functioning at a high level.

Injuries to Other Key Players: The 49ers’ Depth Will Be Tested

In addition to the high-profile absences of Kittle, Samuel, and McKivitz, the 49ers’ injury report also includes several other key players who will be unavailable or uncertain for the game against the Arizona Cardinals. Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir is ruled out due to a shoulder injury, which will leave the 49ers’ secondary thinner than usual. Additionally, quarterback Brock Purdy is out due to his ongoing elbow issue, and rookie defensive end Robert Beal Jr. will also miss the game with an ankle injury.

Linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles is listed as doubtful with a calf injury, further complicating the 49ers’ defensive depth. On a positive note, cornerback Isaac Yiadom and safety Ji’Ayir Brown are both listed as questionable with pelvis and ankle injuries, respectively. Their statuses will likely be decided closer to game time, and both could be critical for the 49ers’ secondary if they are able to suit up.

The 49ers’ Challenges Heading Into the Season Finale

With a long list of injuries to key players, the 49ers will face significant challenges in their final regular-season game. However, the team’s depth and resilience will be tested, and they will need to rely on their remaining stars to close out the season on a high note. While the injuries are unfortunate, they also present an opportunity for younger players and less experienced members of the roster to step up and make an impact.

Despite the adversity, the 49ers have a strong foundation and a talented roster, and they will look to finish the season with a competitive performance, even if their chances of making the playoffs are slim. The coaching staff, led by Shanahan, will need to get creative with their game plan to mitigate the impact of these absences and maximize the potential of the players available.

As the 49ers take on the Arizona Cardinals, all eyes will be on the performance of Joshua Dobbs and the efforts of the remaining healthy players to make one final push to end the season on a positive note. With the team’s future in mind, the 49ers will use this game as an opportunity to evaluate their depth and make preparations for what promises to be a busy and critical offseason.