San Francisco 49ers offensive guard Spencer Burford missed practice on Friday but returned on Saturday with a cast on his right hand. He was a limited participant. Head coach Kyle Shanahan revealed that Burford has a broken hand. So why allow the offensive lineman to practice?
"We're just trying to decide whether to get surgery on it or not," Shanahan told reporters after Saturday's practice.
If surgery is required, Shanahan estimates Burford could be sidelined for about three weeks. Even if surgery isn't necessary, Burford is likely to be restricted from participating in team drills for some time.
Hufanga, Pearsall nearing returns
Rookie Ricky Pearsall, who started training camp on the non-football injury (NFI) list due to a hamstring issue, is nearing a return to the practice field. Shanahan believes Pearsall could be back as soon as Monday, when the 49ers are expected to hold their first padded practice of training camp.
Meanwhile, the 49ers hope to have safety Talanoa Hufanga back by August, around the time the team holds joint practices with the New Orleans Saints in Irvine, California. Hufanga is recovering from an ACL injury sustained in November 2023 and expects to be ready for Week 1 of the regular season.
Jacob Cowing update
Shanahan also provided an update on rookie wideout Jacob Cowing, who is dealing with a hamstring injury and has missed the last two practices. This injury may have contributed to the 49ers' decision to sign wide receiver Frank Darby to a one-year deal.