The injuries keep piling up for the 49ers. Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Monday that center Jake Brendel is expected to miss a couple of weeks with a hamstring injury.
Brendel sustained the injury during Sundayâs 20-10 win over the Falcons. The 33-year-old started the teamâs first seven games, and his absence will open the door for Matt Hennessy to take over along the offensive line.
The 49ers are in a three-way tie atop the NFC West at 5-2. They visit the Texans on Sunday (1 p.m. ET).
Hennessey to Take Over at Center
Brendel left Sundayâs game in the first half. The 27-year-old Hennessey played relatively well in his absence, and Shanahan expressed confidence in him moving forward.
âHe wasnât perfect, but he works really hard at it,â Shanahan said of Hennessey. âWe definitely mixed him in with reps. For him to get thrown in in that situation, especially versus a defense that stunts a lot, changes their fronts and definitely pressures at a high rate, I thought he did very well. I think heâll only do better with more reps this week.â
It’s unfortunate timing for Brendel, who has been a stalwart along the offensive line. Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranks him 11th out of 49 eligible centers with a grade of 69.1. More specifically, heâs ranked eighth as a run blocker and 35th as a pass blocker.
The 49ers are ranked in total offense (366.6 yards per game) but just 24th in scoring (20.7 points per game) as injuries continue to mount.
Purdy Expected to Miss Another Week
Shanahan also revealed Monday that Pro Bowl quarterback Brock Purdy will likely be out another week. Purdy has missed the last three games with a toe injury.
âYeah, I would say that is,â Shanahan said when asked if Purdyâs a reach to return in Week 8.
The Athleticâs Diana Russini shed more light on Purdyâs status.
âHe went through a workout (Sunday) on the field, and I was told he didnât really feel that great,â Russini said. âSo we’ll see how this progresses over the next few days.â
Mac Jones went 17-of-26 for 152 yards and one interception against the Falcons. He is 5-1 as a starter this season.
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