The 49ers’ first three days of camp couldn’t have gone much better from an injury standpoint. That changed on a minor scale in Day 4 when three players sat out the session with various injuries.
Fullback Kyle Juszczyk, offensive lineman Joshua Garnett and running back Jeff Wilson Jr. were all observers of Tuesday’s session. None of the injuries were announced as potential long-term issues.
Juszczyk got stepped on during Monday’s practice, so he got the day off Tuesday with a scheduled day off for the team coming Wednesday. His spot on the roster is safe and getting a conservative treatment from the training staff shouldn’t impact the fullback at all.
Garnett is a little bit different story. He dislocated his finger and is missing time to deal with that. His roster spot was already in jeopardy due to some injury woes throughout his career, and going into his fourth year things once again aren’t going his way. It’ll put a significant dent in his chances to make the club if he misses substantial time.
Wilson was already on the outside looking in on a crowded backfield. He’s a legitimate practice squad candidate though after impressing last season. He should get plenty of opportunities in the preseason as long as that calf injury isn’t serious.
It’d be ideal for the 49ers if this collection of injuries weren’t long-term. Having a fully stocked 90-man roster, or close to it, ensures players aren’t taking too many practice reps and gives the team as many looks at different players as possible so they can properly fill out their 53-man roster in September.
The good news is defensive back Jimmie Ward came off the PUP list Tuesday, and head coach Kyle Shanahan said running back Jerick McKinnon should come off soon as well.
