The San Francisco 49ers haven't suffered any significant injuries during the offseason — knock on wood. The injury list, however, isn't blank. There have been some players banged up during training camp. The latest was cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon on Friday, who sustained what the team called a "glute issue."
Pass rusher Dee Ford is dealing with some knee tendinitis. Guard Joshua Garnett recently underwent surgery on his finger. Running back Jeff Wilson is dealing with a calf injury. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is managing a toe issue. There are others. Plus, three players remain on the 49ers' Physically Unable to Perform list.
General manager John Lynch doesn't sound too concerned. He joined KNBR on Friday and discussed the health of the team, of which he is optimistic.
"I'm actually feeling really good with the health of our team," Lynch told Greg Papa and John Lund. "Obviously, in some parts of the offseason, we had as high as 16 guys out. A lot of them coming off major injuries, and those guys are doing very well. That's the good news."
Lynch notes that the rigors of training camp can take their toll on the 90-man roster. Plus, it is better to ease players back into practice even from minor injuries rather than risk something more significant. Buckner's issue is an example of that.
"Buck has declared himself healthy," Lynch said. "He's got a little sprain in that foot, and that is always scary (when it's) in the foot, but it's at a spot that's not too concerning. I think he'll be back any day."
Lynch added, "All and all, I'm extremely pleased with the health of our team."
The GM knows a healthy team is a better team. The 49ers have been devastated by injuries over the past two seasons. Some have been significant and to key positions — like last year's starting quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo.
Having better depth than previous years will also be a benefit this season.
"I think the depth of our team is much better than in any point since we've been here," Lynch continued. "I also think the top-line players is as good — the quality of that and the number of them."
Even the 49ers' practice structure has changed to reduce injuries. It's a significant change from Lynch's NFL playing days.
"We go kind of a low day, and then we go a high day where we ramp it up," he explained. "Then they come back to a low day. It used to be you just go practice, and if we're getting hurt, it just means we have to work them harder."
You can listen to the entire interview with Lynch below.
