The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for a crucial week as they expect to see the return of star players Nick Bosa and George Kittle at practice. Head coach Kyle Shanahan provided insights into how the team plans to manage their workloads in the lead-up to their upcoming game in Australia.
Shanahan explained that with three days of practice scheduled before their departure, the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach. "We don’t want them to go three days in a row, so we’re going to do a little on some of these days, and more on one," he stated. This strategy is designed to ensure both players are in optimal condition without overexerting them before the long trip.
The 49ers' schedule has been adjusted due to travel considerations. Typically, the team practices for three days, followed by three days off, but this time they have already had their days off and are now utilizing these extra practice sessions to prepare. Shanahan noted that the team’s Monday routine will actually take place on Saturday, aligning with their travel plans.
Kittle, who recently indicated that if he was not fit to play in Melbourne, it would be better for him to stay behind, is a focal point of the team's decision-making. Shanahan emphasized the importance of making timely decisions regarding Kittle’s travel, especially considering the lengthy absence from the team’s training staff and meetings during their time abroad.
Regarding Bosa, who has been managing tendinitis, Shanahan mentioned that the focus has shifted to maintenance rather than recovery. "He’s feeling great. We’re deciding how much we want to do in team settings going against people and stuff before we get out there," Shanahan said, indicating that the coaching staff is optimistic about Bosa’s readiness for the game.
John Lynch, the 49ers' general manager, also shared his confidence in Bosa’s ability to manage his condition effectively. Lynch remarked on Bosa's awareness of his body and how he has previously demonstrated the capability to perform well even after limited preparation. This trust in Bosa’s instincts is crucial as the team looks to maximize his impact on the field.
In addition to Bosa and Kittle, the 49ers are also integrating new players into their lineup. Shanahan discussed the addition of Jarrett Patterson to the offensive line, highlighting the fluidity of the positions as they evaluate how he fits into the group during practice. The upcoming sessions will be critical for determining the starting left guard and backup running back roles.
Linebacker Drew Greenlaw will also be on a maintenance schedule throughout the season, ensuring he does not practice three consecutive days. Meanwhile, safety Malik Mustapha is set to return to practice after more than a month, alongside other players like Dominick Puni and Kyle Juszczyk, who are also rejoining the team.
As the 49ers prepare for their international matchup, the return of key players like Bosa and Kittle could significantly influence their performance. With the team’s travel plans and practice strategies in place, they are looking to solidify their roster and enhance their chances for success in Australia.
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