49ers Practice Led by Foerster as Shanahan Recovers

49ers assistant head coach Chris Foerster is running day-to-day camp practices as Kyle Shanahan recovers from a July 14 car crash.

Mehmet Şahinoğlu ·

49ers Practice Led by Foerster as Shanahan Recovers

San Francisco 49ers assistant head coach Chris Foerster has stepped into a larger on-field leadership role at training camp while head coach Kyle Shanahan recovers from injuries sustained in a July 14 car accident.

Officials said Shanahan suffered a concussion and facial injuries. He has continued to take part in team activities on a limited basis, including observing training camp work from the sideline rather than managing full sessions.

Practice operations shift to Foerster and coordinators

With Shanahan not yet back to full duties, Foerster has been overseeing the daily flow of practices. He has been working alongside coordinators Raheem Morris, Klay Kubiak, and Brant Boyer to keep routines consistent and ensure the team’s preparation stays on schedule.

During a recent 90-minute practice, Foerster introduced procedural changes intended to make instruction more efficient. One adjustment split offensive and defensive meetings, a move designed to streamline communication and keep players aligned on responsibilities.

Shanahan remains present, but only in a limited role

Shanahan attended the same practice for roughly 30 minutes to watch drills, according to the account provided. The larger burden of running the session, however, fell to the assistant coaches, reflecting the team’s effort to maintain continuity while the head coach recovers.

Foerster’s expanded role follows guidance attributed to Shanahan, who encouraged his staff to delegate responsibilities as needed so the football operation continues smoothly during the recovery period.

Veteran support and an open-ended timeline

Veteran players have also backed the interim structure publicly, including offensive tackle Trent Williams and linebacker Fred Warner. Their comments were presented as an indication of internal support for the temporary leadership arrangement at camp.

The organization expects Shanahan to return to full duties in the near future, officials said, but no specific timetable has been provided for a complete recovery.

Training camp continues with day-to-day adjustments

Coaches are continuing to make daily decisions aimed at keeping the roster focused heading into the pre-season. Foerster’s responsibilities include directing practice logistics and adjusting routines such as meeting structures, as the staff works to keep competitive readiness intact.

How the coaching delegation functions through Shanahan’s rehabilitation period is expected to draw attention as the 49ers move through camp and prepare for the upcoming NFL season, with the team emphasizing continuity until the head coach resumes full involvement.

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