San Francisco – The 49ers entered Sunday’s matchup against the Dallas Cowboys with a mounting injury list that could test the depth of a team currently sitting atop the NFC at 7‑1. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that veteran wideout Mike Evans will miss his third straight game due to Achilles tendinitis, and left tackle Trent Williams remains questionable after a shoulder injury in practice.
Key players on the sidelines
Evans, a consistent deep threat, was ruled out of the Cowboys game and has not practiced since leaving a Week 6 contest against Washington early with the same issue. Shanahan noted Evans is making progress and may be available for the upcoming Mexico City game against Minnesota, but for now the 49ers must rely on other weapons in the passing attack.
Trent Williams, 38, a 12‑time Pro Bowler, left Thursday’s practice early and did not participate Friday. The veteran’s presence on the offensive line has been a cornerstone of the team’s success. Shanahan praised Williams, saying, “The left tackle in general is always huge. Then a guy of Trent’s caliber is huge… he’s a captain for a reason, and everyone knows Trent Williams is one of the best players in this league.” The coach remains hopeful the tackle will be cleared to play Sunday, but Vederian Lowe is expected to start if Williams is unable to suit up.
Additional injury concerns
San Francisco’s injury report also listed cornerbacks Deommodore Lenoir and Renardo Green, both of whom missed practice Wednesday and Thursday after injuries sustained in the previous week’s game against Las Vegas. They returned as limited participants on Friday. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw was listed as questionable after a knee tweak on Thursday, while cornerback Nate Hobbs (adductor), defensive back Upton Stout (shoulder, neck) and defensive tackle C.J. West (knee) were also marked questionable.
Offensive help returns
Despite the setbacks, the 49ers will receive a boost at receiver with Deebo Samuel slated to return after missing three games with a hamstring injury. Additionally, Keenan Allen makes his debut for San Francisco after being acquired in a trade with Indianapolis earlier this week, providing another reliable target for quarterback Brock Purdy.
Impact on the NFC race
The 49ers’ ability to stay healthy will be crucial as they defend their NFC‑best record. Even with the injuries, the team’s depth and coaching have kept them competitive, but losing a player of Williams’ stature could affect pass protection and the running game against a Cowboys defense that thrives on pressure.
Shanahan emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “We’ve dealt with injuries before and we’ll keep fighting. Our next opponents are tough, but we have the talent and the heart to keep winning.” The outcome of Sunday’s game will shape the 49ers’ path toward the playoffs and determine whether they can maintain their lead in the conference.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
