The San Francisco 49ers have been one of the most complete teams in the NFL through three weeks. The offense has moved the ball with ease. The defense has been suffocating. However, the Achilles heel of any team can be injuries to important players. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel is dealing with a rib and knee injury and his status for week 4 is uncertain.
San Francisco 49ers Deebo Samuel Misses Practice On Wednesday
Samuel hurt his ribs Thursday night against the New York Giants but was able to return to finish the game. This is always a good sign but the 49ers are being cautious. “It was good that he came back in,” coach Kyle Shanahan said of Samuel. “He came back in, which usually means you’re hoping it’s positive but I know he is sore right now and we’ll have to check that out.” While he may still be out for week 4, the 49ers are playing the long game.
No Need To Rush Him Back
The good news for the 49ers was that Brandon Aiyuk was back at practice after missing the last game. Week 4 is also a matchup against the Arizona Cardinals who on paper should be an easier matchup. San Francisco knows that it is more important to have their players healthy for the postseason than a random week 4 game. The luxury of starting the season 3-0 and having a plethora of weapons on offense is that the team can afford to sit Samuel for a week and it isn’t a big deal.
I would be surprised if Deebo Samuel plays for the San Francisco 49ers this week. This team has been the best through three weeks and has an easier opponent this week. Kyle Shanahan knows the dangers of losing players to injuries at the wrong time and likely will be cautious with his best receiver.