49ers Edge Rusher Bryce Huff Out for Two Weeks with Injury

The San Francisco 49ers received disappointing news on Monday regarding edge rusher Bryce Huff, who is set to miss at least two games due to a hamstring strain. Huff sustained the injury during the team’s 20-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on October 29, 2023. He played an impressive 45 snaps, marking his highest participation rate this season, but felt discomfort towards the end of the game.

Head Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Huff experienced the issue during the last two plays of the match. “I was told it was right at the end,” Shanahan stated in a conference call with reporters. The 49ers are already facing challenges in their pass rush, having lost their leading edge rusher, Nick Bosa, to a torn ACL on September 14, 2023. Currently, the team ranks 25th in the NFL with just 14 sacks.

Huff, who joined the 49ers from the Philadelphia Eagles, has emerged as a crucial player, leading the team with four sacks and six quarterback hits. His performance against Atlanta highlighted his capabilities, as he forced a fumble while defeating tackle Elijah Wilkinson with an impressive move.

The 49ers’ defensive line continues to face difficulties, as they are also without Yetur Gross-Matos, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury. This situation leaves the team with only Sam Okuayinonu and rookie Mykel Williams as healthy edge rushers. While Okuayinonu recorded his first sack against Atlanta, the team will need to bolster its defensive lineup for the upcoming road games against the Houston Texans and the New York Giants on November 2, 2023.

Shanahan expressed hope that Huff’s injury would not extend beyond two weeks, contrasting it with the more severe injury that kept tight end George Kittle out for the first six games of the season. “Hopefully it won’t be longer than two weeks,” Shanahan remarked, indicating that they expect Huff back sooner rather than later.

The situation raises questions about the 49ers’ plans ahead of the trade deadline on November 5, 2023. Shanahan downplayed the urgency for a trade, noting that the front office has been actively exploring options for weeks. “I don’t think it changes the urgency of it,” he said, affirming that they have consistently monitored potential edge rusher acquisitions.

In addition to Huff, center Jake Brendel is also expected to be out for a similar timeframe due to a hamstring strain. Veteran Matt Hennessey stepped in effectively during the Atlanta game, showcasing the depth of the 49ers’ roster.

The 49ers are closely monitoring the health of quarterback Brock Purdy, who is dealing with a toe injury, as well as wide receiver Ricky Pearsall Jr., who has a knee issue. Shanahan did not commit to Purdy being ready for the Houston game, and cornerback Renardo Green will be evaluated daily due to a toe injury. Furthermore, guard and swing tackle Spencer Burford might begin his return from injured reserve this week.

In reflecting on the team’s success this season, Kittle credited quarterback Mac Jones for his leadership and resilience, particularly in Purdy’s absence. He also praised the coaching prowess of Robert Saleh, stating, “The juice he brings every single day, how smart he is, how he game plans… he’s such a good coach and I’m so glad we got him back this year.”

As the 49ers prepare for the next phase of the season, the impact of injuries on their roster will be closely observed by fans and analysts alike. The team currently holds a record of 5-2 and aims to maintain momentum in the face of these challenges.