The San Francisco 49ers face a challenging injury report ahead of their Sunday matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, with two key players listed as questionable. Left tackle Trent Williams, dealing with a shoulder injury, and linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who is nursing a knee issue, are both uncertain to play. According to head coach Kyle Shanahan, both athletes sustained their injuries during Thursday's practice session, which resulted in them being listed as limited for that day's drills. Greenlaw continued to practice with limitations on Friday, while Williams did not take the field at all.
Shanahan expressed caution regarding Williams' timeline for recovery. The coach noted that sustaining a shoulder injury on a Thursday does not provide total peace of mind, as Sunday arrives quickly. However, he expressed hope that the players will have sufficient time to heal and be ready for the game. If Williams is unable to suit up, the team plans to insert swing tackle Vederian Lowe into the lineup to cover the position.
In the event that Greenlaw cannot play, the 49ers will look to rookie Jaden Dugger to step into the weak side linebacker role. Shanahan expressed confidence in the backup plan, stating that while he hopes to have Greenlaw on the field, the next man up has proven himself thus far in the season. This depth provides the coaching staff with a clear path forward should the veteran linebacker remain sidelined.
Wide receiver Mike Evans will miss his third consecutive game due to an Achilles injury. He is the only player on the roster officially ruled out for the contest against Dallas. Evans has been working through tendinitis that flared up during Week 6 against the Washington Commanders. While his absence is certain for this weekend, Shanahan provided a slight update on his return timeline, indicating there is a chance Evans could play next week against the Minnesota Vikings, though the decision has not been finalized.
The coach emphasized the importance of ensuring Evans' injury fully heals to prevent future flare-ups. He remarked that while the receiver might be able to play in a low-stakes final game of the season, the team is prioritizing a complete recovery for the ongoing schedule. Shanahan described the progress as going in the right direction, highlighting that Evans has taken care of himself during his absence.
The injury concerns extend beyond the offensive line and linebacker corps. All three of San Francisco's primary cornerbacks are listed as questionable for the game. Deommodore Lenoir is dealing with a foot issue, Renardo Green has a back problem, and Upton Stout is managing a shoulder and neck injury. This uncertainty presents a significant challenge for the 49ers' secondary as they prepare to defend against the Cowboys.
On the defensive line, C.J. West is also questionable due to a knee injury. Additionally, defensive back Nate Hobbs, who has an adductor issue, is listed as questionable. Both West and Hobbs are currently working their way back from injured reserve, with the possibility that they could be activated on Saturday if they clear final medical checks.
In a positive development for the offense, wide receiver Deebo Samuel is cleared to return against Dallas. Samuel has been out since Week 5 due to a hamstring injury. He practiced all week without limitation, marking his first full week of practice since the injury occurred. Shanahan praised Samuel's health and preparation, noting that the receiver took excellent care of himself during his time away from the field.
With Samuel back in the mix, the 49ers will look to stabilize their receiving corps while managing the uncertainties on the defensive side of the ball. The coaching staff will make final decisions on the questionable players as they approach game day, aiming to field the strongest available lineup for their rivalry game in Santa Clara.
