49ers Bryce Huff Out for Two Weeks with Hamstring Strain

UPDATE: The San Francisco 49ers faced a major setback as edge rusher Bryce Huff is expected to miss at least two weeks due to a hamstring strain. The announcement comes just after the team’s 20-10 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, raising urgent concerns about their already struggling pass rush.

Huff, who played a season-high 45 snaps against Atlanta, reported discomfort late in the game. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed, “I was told he felt it on the last two plays.” Huff’s injury is a significant blow as he currently leads the 49ers with four sacks this season. The 49ers, missing their top edge rusher Nick Bosa due to a torn ACL, now rank 25th in the NFL with only 14 sacks overall.

The 49ers are also without defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos, who is sidelined with another hamstring issue, leaving the team with limited options on the roster. The only healthy ends available are Sam Okuayinonu and rookie Mykel Williams, intensifying the urgency for the 49ers as they head into two critical road games against the Houston Texans on October 29 and the New York Giants on November 2.

Shanahan acknowledged the team’s ongoing search for additional defensive help as the trade deadline approaches on November 5. “I don’t think it changes the urgency of it,” he stated, emphasizing that the front office has been actively exploring options.

In addition to Huff, center Jake Brendel is also expected to be out for a similar timeframe due to a hamstring strain, prompting veteran Matt Hennessey to step in effectively during the Atlanta game. The 49ers will keep a close watch on quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) and wide receiver Ricky Pearsall Jr. (knee) this week, as their statuses remain uncertain.

Despite the challenges, tight end George Kittle praised the team’s resilience. “We’ve been able to adapt and overcome injuries,” he stated. This adaptability will be crucial as the 49ers aim to maintain momentum in the competitive race for playoff positioning.

As injury updates continue to unfold, fans are left wondering how the team will cope with these significant losses. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.