News broke yesterday that San Francisco 49ers running back Jeff Wilson Jr. suffered a torn meniscus and underwent surgery to repair the damage. His rehabilitation will sideline him for four to six months, per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. That means the running back will miss the start of the 2021 season, likely landing on the physically-unable-to-perform (PUP) list.
General manager John Lynch informed reporters today that the injury occurred last week after a session at the team's facility. The injury is described as "substantial" and, surprisingly, did not occur on the practice field.
#49ers RB Jeff Wilson Jr. sustained substantial meniscal tear last Thursday after practice in locker room getting up from talking to teammates, had surgery Friday. Will start year on PUP, no timeline given, per GM John Lynch
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) May 26, 2021
While the tear did not occur on the practice field, it occurred at the team's facility, which means Wilson is not in danger of losing his fully guaranteed $2.05 million salary for the upcoming season.
Wilson's focus has already shifted to his recovery, and there remains hope that the running back can still play an important role this season. The 49ers do have significant depth at the position. In addition to Raheem Mostert, Wayne Gallman, and JaMycal Hasty, the team also drafted two running backs — Trey Sermon in the second round and Elijah Mitchell in the sixth round.
Lynch said Wilson's mindset has already shifted to recovery and he's eager to get to rehab. All sides holding out hope he will still be a big part of the team this year. Lynch said team is "not in that mode right now" in terms of adding another back. Team has five HBs on roster.
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) May 26, 2021
Lynch also shared some thoughts on the mass shooting today in San Jose that left nine dead.
"Terribly saddened by what happened down in San Jose today," Lynch said via The Athletic. "It's happening far too much. So our hearts, our thoughts, our prayers are with all the families, everyone involved there."
John Lynch on mass shooting in San Jose, which occurred about 5 miles from 49ers team facility: 'Terribly saddened by what happened down in San Jose today. It's happening far too much. So our hearts, our thoughts, our prayers are with all the families, everyone involved there.'
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) May 26, 2021
The 49ers issued the following statement.
We are saddened to learn about the horrific event in San Jose. Violence has no place in our community. Our thoughts are with the victims and those affected by this tragedy. We offer our thanks to the first responders and our condolences and support to the families of the victims.
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) May 26, 2021