Can the Undefeated 49ers Survive Their Growing Injury Crisis?

A Growing List of Injuries

The San Francisco 49ers are on pace to be one of the most injured NFL teams in 2026. Just four weeks into the season, their players have missed a combined 75 games due to injury. That is the highest number in the league.

Despite the setback, the team has started the season with a 4-0 record. They currently have 16 players on injured reserve and two more on the physically unable to perform list. Linebacker Fred Warner noted the reality of the situation, saying, "This is the NFL, it's football, it's a violent game, things are going to happen."

The defensive line and wide receiver positions have been hit particularly hard. Star defensive end Nick Bosa is dealing with a calf injury, and fullback Kyle Juszczyk has a sprained right knee. Neither is on a reserve list, and both are expected to return sometime in October.

Managing the Roster and Trades

With so many players out, coach Kyle Shanahan has had to rely on practice squad players and free agents. Only four defensive linemen from the initial 53 player roster remain active. These are Osa Odighizuwa, Gracen Halton, Romello Height, and Keion White. Shanahan said he has been happy with how the new players have stepped up.

The team still has options to bring players back. NFL rules allow teams to designate eight players to return from injured reserve. The 49ers have already used two of those spots for offensive lineman Austen Pleasants and wide receiver Christian Kirk. This leaves them with six spots remaining for the rest of the season.

With the November 10 trade deadline approaching, the front office may look for outside help. The defense currently ranks 22nd in rushing success rate and 26th in sacks per dropback. Adding another defensive tackle to stop the run or an edge rusher could be a priority.

What it means for the next game

San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): Seattle Seahawks win 53%, San Francisco 49ers win 47%; projected score Seattle Seahawks 24, San Francisco 49ers 22. Our safest pick: 49ers +9.5.