The San Francisco 49ers faced a whirlwind Wednesday, juggling injury updates, new signings, and the return of a familiar face. Head coach Kyle Shanahan's press conference painted a mixed picture for the team heading into their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints.
The most pressing concern centers around quarterback Brock Purdy, whose toe injury casts significant doubt on his availability for Sunday's matchup. Shanahan described Purdy's chances as a "long shot," indicating the injury could sideline him for several weeks. While similar to turf toe, the location of the injury is atypical, adding to the complexity of his recovery.
Adding to the injury woes, tight end George Kittle's hamstring injury is expected to keep him out for at least four games. Shanahan emphasized the significant challenge Kittle's absence poses, given his crucial role in both the running and passing game.
In a positive development, the 49ers bolstered their roster. Veteran kicker Eddy Piñeiro signed a one-year deal, drawn to the team's winning culture. "I want to win games," Piñeiro stated, highlighting his desire to contribute to a successful franchise. The team also added tight end Messiah Swinson to their practice squad.
The return of wide receiver Kendrick Bourne added another layer to the day's events. Bourne, back in a 49ers uniform after a stint with the New England Patriots, is utilizing his pre-existing connections to accelerate his integration into the team. He mentioned collaborating with former teammate Mac Jones, gaining valuable insights and leveraging their established rapport for a smoother transition. Despite the short turnaround, Bourne expressed confidence in his ability to prepare effectively, emphasizing his diligent work with wide receivers coach Leonard Hankerson to quickly master the playbook and offensive schemes.
The upcoming game in New Orleans promises a challenging atmosphere, as Shanahan recalled the intense noise levels of their 2019 encounter at the Superdome. The team is preparing for a hostile environment, aiming to minimize the impact of the raucous crowd and secure a victory.
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Originally published at: https://www.49ers.com/news/brock-purdy-injury-update-new-signings-and-kendrick-bourne-s-return
