The San Francisco 49ers interior offensive line has battled injuries throughout training camp. Their backup center and left guard, Ben Bartch, missed the last week of practice with knee irritation, but his injury isn’t considered long-term.
Their top two right guards are also hurt. Spencer Burford fractured his right hand in the first week of training camp and hasn’t practiced since. Jon Feliciano has been dealing with knee soreness/irritation since the start of camp and is considered week-to-week.
Finally, their other starter sustained an injury this week.
The San Francisco 49ers left guard injured his finger
Aaron Banks exited Thursday’s practice with an apparent finger injury. He broke his pinky and underwent surgery on Friday morning. Banks will miss their second preseason game against the Saints on Sunday and their final preseason game against the Raiders next Friday.
Kyle Shanahan revealed an encouraging injury update
Kyle Shanahan isn’t overly concerned about the injury and hopes Aaron Banks will be ready for Week 1.
“He broke his pinky, had surgery this morning. Hoping to have him back Week One,” Shanahan said.
Who will replace their former second-round pick for the time being?
Due to Ben Bartch recovering from his knee injury, Nick Zakelj will take over at left guard. Zakelj has spent time playing left guard and center throughout training camp. Their offensive line coach considers him a better center, while Bartch is a better guard.
Conclusion
The San Francisco 49ers’ interior offensive line has battled injuries since training camp started. Ben Bartch (knee irritation), Spencer Burford (fractured hand), Jon Feliciano (knee soreness/irritation), and Aaron Banks (broken pinky) are not practicing. In the meantime, Nick Zakelj will replace Banks in the starting rotation until he recovers.
Will he be ready for Week 1?
