49ers face tough news on Brandon Aiyuk’s potential Week 10 return
The San Francisco 49ers have delivered a disheartening update regarding the health status of Brandon Aiyuk and several other key players. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the return of a fully healthy offense, but that dream appears to be slipping further away as the team navigates injuries yet again.
Brandon Aiyuk’s recovery timeline in question
Head coach Kyle Shanahan had previously indicated that there was hope for Aiyuk to open his practice window this week. This would have allowed the wide receiver to engage in practice for three weeks before officially taking a roster spot. However, Shanahan has since clarified that this scenario is no longer in play for Aiyuk this season, casting doubt on his availability for Week 10.
Typically, a player returning from a significant injury would need at least a week or two of practice to regain rhythm and conditioning. The established three-week practice window is intended for this very purpose. Without that preparation, it seems increasingly likely that Aiyuk will remain sidelined for at least a few more weeks.
Positive news on Ben Bartch’s return
In contrast to Aiyuk’s situation, the outlook for left guard Ben Bartch appears more optimistic. His return to practice could set him up to play as soon as Week 10, with a slim chance of being involved this week. Given the importance of the upcoming division games, particularly against the Rams, activating Bartch sooner rather than later would bolster the offensive line significantly.
Connor Colby, who has been filling in at left guard, has struggled in the role, resembling a typical seventh-round rookie. The team has opted to utilize Nick Zakelj in the past two games, indicating a pressing need for improvement in that position. Bartch’s presence, even if he’s not at full capacity, would represent a notable upgrade over the current struggles at left guard.
Brock Purdy and Ricky Pearsall’s uncertain status
Quarterback Brock Purdy and wide receiver Ricky Pearsall remain in a precarious position as well. Both players have been listed as week-to-week, having missed over four weeks of action. The decision not to place either on Injured Reserve has complicated matters, as the team had hoped for a quicker recovery timeline.
As it stands, the 49ers are eyeing Week 10 for their potential returns, but Aiyuk may be the only offensive player unavailable during that matchup. The prospect of returning to full strength remains a tantalizing yet elusive goal for a team that has struggled with injuries throughout the season.
The 49ers find themselves at a crossroads as they prepare for upcoming games, with the hope that key players will soon return to help turn the tide of their season.
