Injury updates: These key player is ‘looking good’ and will return to practice this week

Kyle Shanahan, head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, gave an update on player injuries during a conference call. Christian McCaffrey is sidelined for the week due to a calf strain but is expected back in practice next week. Meanwhile, team captains George Kittle and Arik Armstead are set to return to practice. Kittle’s back spasms have improved significantly, while Armstead, whose injury specifics were undisclosed, is showing positive signs, although Shanahan didn’t confirm whether it’s related to a knee or foot issue, avoiding any commitment to the possibility of plantar fasciitis.

“I just know it’s his foot and his knee. I don’t know how to pronounce that word you just said. He’s doing better. He looked good today and that was the test and that’s why we’re going to get him into practice Thursday and hopefully it goes well and we’ll get him in a little bit Friday.”

The 49ers’ push for the No. 1 seed allowed some key players like Armstead to rest up for the playoffs. Shanahan highlighted Armstead’s recovery, emphasizing their cautious approach to avoid lingering injuries. Greenlaw’s Achilles tendonitis keeps him under observation, while Jennings and Thomas have cleared concussion protocols. Ferrell faces a knee injury setback, with hopes for a playoff return. Jackson remains on the injured list due to ongoing health concerns.

On the bright side, safeties Gipson and Brown are back in practice after recent injuries. The team also aims to reintroduce Odum, a standout special teams player, despite uncertainty about his return. Hawkins faces surgery for a wrist issue, while Feliciano deals with a day-to-day back problem. The 49ers are navigating various injury challenges while keeping an eye on the playoffs, managing player recoveries strategically for their postseason run.