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The San Francisco 49ers were hoping defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos would return this Sunday against the New York Giants after missing the last three games with a hamstring injury. Gross-Matos had returned to practice on Thursday, and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh suggested he was expected to play.
Unfortunately, the 49ers’ injury woes struck again.
Gross-Matos did not practice on Friday. According to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, the defensive lineman re-injured his hamstring during his first practice back. The team has ruled Gross-Matos out for the Week 9 clash at MetLife Stadium. Maiocco added that Gross-Matos is a potential candidate for injured reserve, which would sideline him for a minimum of four games.
The 49ers’ defensive line has already been severely impacted this season. Nick Bosa (ACL) is out for the year, and veteran Bryce Huff remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, though there is hope he could return next week. Additionally, Sam Okuayinonu and Jordan Elliott are questionable with ankle injuries.
To bolster the line, San Francisco added two defensive linemen this week: Keion White, acquired via trade, and Clelin Ferrell, signed to the practice squad. Both could potentially suit up against the Giants.
“I mean, we’re real low on numbers, so everyone has a chance,” head coach Kyle Shanahan said. “We have guys that are questionable, guys that have been banged up.”
San Francisco would need to elevate Ferrell from the practice squad, a decision likely to be finalized on Saturday.
“But I expect Keion, yes. A chance with Cle,” Shanahan told reporters.
With Gross-Matos sidelined once again, the 49ers’ defensive front faces ongoing challenges as the team looks to rebound from a loss and make a strong push in the second half of the season.
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