49ers general manager John Lynch spoke to media Saturday and confirmed Matt Barrows’ report that Mike Person’s foot injury was only minor. Lynch said it’s a foot strain for the starting right guard, and he’ll be day-to-day.
Injuries of any magnitude aren’t good, but it feels like the 49ers dodged a bullet when Person exited the locker room on crutches in a walking boot.
San Francisco’s offensive line depth is shallow, and Person was the only consistent performer at the right guard spot. The 49ers probably would’ve had to get creative with their offensive front had Person been forced to miss significant time. That’s the last thing a team needs when it’s trying to keep its quarterback upright after an ACL tear.
Joshua Garnett would normally step into the starting role, but he dislocated a finger and needed surgery. He’s been out a couple weeks, but Lynch said he’ll be eased back into practice next week.
In the meantime it’s likely to be Najee Toran with the starting unit. He may not earn a starting job with his play, but a roster spot is there for the taking if he can perform well with the first unit in practice and during Monday’s game.
