San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan met with the media via conference call Saturday, and gave some thoughts on the team's 27-17 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, as well as updates on injured players. Here are some notes from the call:
- DL DeForest Buckner aggravated a low-ankle sprain, and while it's not believed to be serious, the defensive lineman is doubtful for the next preseason game against the Denver Broncos. Buckner had originally suffered the injury earlier in training camp, and missed three practices because of it. He's likely to be held out of practice this week.
- FS Jimmie Ward is going to test out his injured hamstring on Sunday, and the team is hopeful he'll be ready to go. However, Shanahan made it a point to say that if Ward isn't 100-percent, he and the team won't risk pushing Ward further.
- DL Ronald Blair has a groin injury and is also doubtful for the Denver game. Shanahan said he doesn't believe the injury to be long-term.
- Shanahan praised the play of FS Lorenzo Jerome, saying he thought the undrafted rookie did a solid job, and he was happy with Jerome's play.
- The head coach was also complimentary of DL Aaron Lynch, commenting on how happy he was for Lynch after a strong game.
- WR Kendrick Bourne had the best statistical performance of any pass catcher (4/88/1) in Week 1, and Shanahan mentioned Bourne's natural ability to separate and his good hands. Shanahan called the rookie "talented," but did go on to say that missing the offseason program did have Bourne behind a bit.
- When asked about the quarterbacks, Shanahan was clearly impressed with QB C.J. Beathard, and hopes to get him into the action earlier next game.
- The 49ers were penalized 17 times in their 2017 preseason debut, and Shanahan addressed the issue, stating that "the penalties are frustrating because we can control that."
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