Pressure Mounts for 49ers as Latest Injuries Prompt Free Agent Action

The San Francisco 49ers faced a setback in their defensive line lineup, marking Kalia Davis for the injured reserve after an ankle injury during their triumphant 45-29 win against the Arizona Cardinals. This injury comes as a blow to Davis, sidelining him in only the third game of his professional career. His journey to the NFL was already delayed due to recuperating from an ACL tear suffered during his college years at UCF.

Davis had firmly established himself within the defensive line rotation, clocking in 54 snaps across three games as the 49ers grappled with injuries to key starters like Arik Armstead and Javon Hargrave. However, his recent sidelining plunges him back into the frustration of injury setbacks. Uncertainty looms regarding the return timelines for Armstead and Hargrave, potentially pressuring the 49ers into seeking a free agent addition to bolster their defensive line.

Reflecting on last year’s pursuit, the 49ers had eyed veteran Ndamukong Suh as a potential addition to fortify their D-Line. Despite Suh’s subsequent signing with the Philadelphia Eagles, he now finds himself once again available in free agency.

During a recent press conference, Kyle Shanahan fielded questions about the team’s contemplation regarding Suh, particularly in light of their recent string of defensive tackle injuries.

In response, Shanahan emphasized the team’s ongoing assessment of options, stating, “We’re not ruling anything out. We utilized practice squad players last week, but the uncertainty around Hargrave and Armstead’s return complicates our decision-making. There’s a chance for them this week, but there are numerous factors at play that we’re weighing today and tomorrow. This evaluation won’t cease even if we hold off on immediate changes; it’s an ongoing consideration.”

The 49ers’ ideal scenario hinges on a swift and complete recovery for both Armstead and Hargrave, especially with the daunting challenge of facing the Baltimore Ravens on Christmas Day. Even if they make a prompt return, concerns arise about the team’s depth following the Cardinals’ effective 234-yard ground game, exposing vulnerabilities with Javon Kinlaw, Kevin Givens, and Davis holding the interior line.

While the return of Armstead and Hargrave would significantly bolster the 49ers against the Ravens’ dynamic rushing offense, the recent dip in depth urges the team to think strategically for long-term playoff readiness. Strengthening their roster depth becomes paramount to endure potential stretches without their key defensive assets, ensuring they’re better equipped for playoff scenarios where their starters may not be available.