San Fransisco 49ers rule out injured Deebo Samuel for next two games

49ers Deebo Samuel injury update: Reaction to shoulder fracture, Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams

San Fransisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan recently confirmed that wide receiver Deebo Samuel will miss at least two games for an injured shoulder. Samuel will be absent on Monday night and the subsequent matchup at home against the Cincinnati Bengals.

“He had X-rays and MRIs early in the week and didn’t have anything,” Shanahan said. “The pain was still there, so he had a CT scan taken the other day and they found a hairline fracture.”

The Niners aim for his return after the bye week when they visit Jacksonville on November 12. The team does not contemplate placing Samuel on the injured reserve, which would necessitate him missing at least four games.

Niners without Samuel

Samuel has recorded 20 receptions for 302 yards and a touchdown this season while contributing 95 rushing yards and an additional score. His absence means that returner Ray-Ray McCloud, No. 3 receiver Jauan Jennings and rookie Ronnie Bell will shoulder a greater workload.

Shanahan mentioned that playing without Samuel is “always different.” Last week, there was uncertainty about his availability, leading to the need for contingency plans.

“He’s been banged up for a few weeks before that too,” Shanahan said. “So this hopefully gives him a chance to hopefully settle down and come back 100%.”

With an ankle injury, left tackle Trent Williams was also designated as “doubtful” and has not participated in practice throughout the week. Jaylon Moore will likely step in to start in his place against Minnesota.

In addition to Samuel’s absence and William’s status, the team listed running back Christian McCaffrey and linebacker Dre Greenlaw as questionable due to their injuries.

McCaffrey suffered an oblique injury during the game against the Browns and missed two days of practice. Even so, he returned on Saturday in a limited capacity. The running back has not missed a game since his trade to the 49ers one year ago, and he leads the NFL with 553 yards rushing through six weeks.