As the San Francisco 49ers get ready for their Week 15 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, they are lacking in defensive line personnel. The first of the Niners’ three practices this week will not feature five defensive players.
Due to foot and knee injuries, defensive tackle Arik Armstead was one of the 49ers’ seven inactive players during their game against the Seattle Seahawks this past weekend. He is not anticipated to suit up against the Cardinals and will not practice on Wednesday.
Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave (hamstring), cornerback Charvarius Ward (groin), linebacker Dre Greenlaw (ankle, hip), and linebacker Oren Burks (knee), who all suffered injuries against the Seahawks, are the other defensive players that were sidelined on Wednesday.
Tight end Ross Dwelley continues to miss time for the offensive team because of a high ankle sprain. Trent Williams (rest day) and Spencer Burford (knee) are the other offensive linemen who will miss practice.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan said, “Not as bad at this time of year just because we’re going half-speed anyway on Wednesdays, regardless,” in response to a question concerning the difficulty of practicing with so many players out of the lineup. Defaulting to half-speed would likely be necessary if this had happened earlier in the year.”
The larger practice squad sizes than in previous years, according to Shanahan, also help in these circumstances.
Darrell Luter, a cornerback, will be fully involved in practice after missing time with a hamstring injury. Elijah Mitchell, a running back, will be limited as he works to recover from a knee injury.
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