Free security Jimmie Ward is predicted to overlook the 49ers’ first 4 video games of the common season.
That jarring information got here from basic supervisor John Lynch earlier than Thursday’s preseason finale at Houston.
“We’ll in all probability have him on short-term on (injured reserve) the primary 4 video games of the season, which is an enormous loss, however we have now to discover a solution to step up,” Lynch mentioned on Prime Video’s pregame set, alongside former 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman, who was making his broadcast debut.
Ward injured his hamstring pressure in observe Aug. 14. The NFL’s injured-reserve guidelines imply gamers should miss a minimal of 4 video games. The 49ers’ open on the Chicago Bears on Sept. 11, adopted by the house opener in opposition to the Seattle Seahawks, then a Sunday evening sport at Denver earlier than internet hosting the Los Angeles Rams on Oct. 3.
“It's a large deal however I feel we’ve acquired the blokes to climate the storm,” coach Kyle Shanahan mentioned after the 49ers’ 17-0 loss to Houston.
Candidates to exchange Ward and begin alongside robust security Talanoa Hufanga are George Odum, Tarvarius Moore, Dontae Johnson and Tashaun Gipson, the latter of whom was signed this week.
“Sherm, you performed with (Ward) and also you’re as cerebral a participant as I’ve been round. You recognize what Jimmie means to us,” Lynch added. “He permits us to do what we do. He performs like a security however can cowl like a nook.”
What's going to the 49ers do with Jimmy Garoppolo? Lynch indicated that the 49ers’ deposed beginning quarterback probably gained’t linger additional on the roster, with the 53-man restrict set for Tuesday.
“If somebody desires to return and provide us a complete lot for a extremely nice quarterback, then we’re pleased to hear. It should occur right here quickly,” Lynch mentioned.