The San Francisco 49ers released their final injury report ahead of Sunday’s matchup, and while the list isn’t long, it carries some weight-especially in the secondary.
Cornerback Renardo Green, who’s been a steady presence all season, will miss his second straight game due to a neck injury. Head coach Kyle Shanahan noted that Green made progress during the week, but ultimately not enough to suit up this weekend.
With Green sidelined again, Darrell Luter is set to make his third start of the season. Luter stepped in last week and had a mixed performance.
He gave up three catches on three targets for 42 yards and a touchdown, but he also showed some fight-registering a pass breakup and nearly notching another if not for a questionable defensive pass interference call. Luter’s going to be tested again, especially with how the Bears like to spread the field.
Speaking of the Bears, they'll be without their X receiver Rome Odunze, which is a significant absence in their passing game. But rookie wideout Luther Burden will be back in the mix, and that could shift how offensive coordinator Ben Johnson schemes things up against the 49ers’ secondary. Expect Johnson to probe Luter’s side early and often, especially with Green out.
On the offensive side for San Francisco, both George Kittle and Ricky Pearsall are officially listed as questionable. Pearsall, dealing with ankle and knee issues, reportedly made it through the week of practice without setbacks-an encouraging sign for a rookie who’s carved out a nice role in the offense.
Kittle, meanwhile, is nursing an ankle injury and remains a true game-time decision. Shanahan said the team will take it down to the wire, but Kittle himself hinted he might know by Saturday whether he’s good to go.
One thing to watch: the 49ers’ practice squad elevations. If a tight end gets called up, it could be a sign that Kittle’s not quite ready.
The only other player on the injury report is quarterback Kurtis Rourke, who has been ruled out.
So while the 49ers head into Sunday relatively healthy, the absence of Green and the uncertainty around Kittle could have real implications-especially against a Bears team that’s starting to find its rhythm on offense. Keep an eye on how San Francisco adjusts in the secondary and whether Kittle’s presence (or absence) alters the dynamics of the 49ers’ game plan.