The 49ers are getting their prize free agent linebacker back for their third preseason game according to head coach Kyle Shanahan. He told reporters after Monday night’s game in Denver that Kwon Alexander will be a full go against Kansas City on Saturday.
Week 3 of the preseason typically serves as a dress rehearsal for the regular season, then the starters sit out the fourth game. Alexander tore his ACL late last October, and wasn’t even a sure thing for Week 1 of the regular season when the 49ers signed him in free agency.
General manager John Lynch took a risk when he gave the injured 25-year-old a four-year, $54 million deal with $25.5 million guaranteed. It’s paying off early with his return during the preseason.
There are still hurdles to clear, but it looks like Alexander is in line to start at Will linebacker in Week 1 of the regular season in Tampa Bay. Alexander could wind up being a key signing for San Francisco, not only because of his high-octane, violent style, but because of the leadership he’s already bringing to the defense.
Even if Alexander only plays a couple series, getting the linebacker on the field for a few snaps before the regular season should put him in a good position to succeed right away.
