Shanahan had considered adding some tackling in training camp to offset the loss of the preseason. However, the coach spoke with reporters after Saturday's practice and confirmed that wouldn't happen. It's just too risky. Several injuries have already struck the team. Why add another opportunity?
"I planned on it, going into camp, but I still feel things out each day and how it's going," Shanahan said. "Right now, I'd be very surprised if I do. It's not worth it with not having enough guys."
NFL teams are carrying 80 players in training camp rather than the typical 90-man rosters.
"I'm trying to get these guys all prepared with 10 less than usual," Shanahan continued, "especially when you bring in the PUP (physically-unable-to-perform) guys and the guys who do get these injuries that take them out for a couple of days -- how hard it is to prepare a team.
"When you do tackle and stuff, it risks so many other guys getting hurt, and right now, I think that's too big of a risk. We'll see if that changes. I look at everything each day and try to feel out where our team is, but as of now, I don't plan on doing any full tackling."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addresses the media during training camp
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke with reporters after Saturday's training camp practice. It was the first time he spoke publicly since suffering injuries during a July 14 car accident. Here's everything he had to say. Transcript provided by the San Francisco... -
49ers' Kyle Shanahan plans to coach preseason opener, learned not to fully trust Tesla Autopilot
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan continues to experience symptoms from the severe concussion he suffered in a July 14 car accident. On Saturday, Shanahan spoke to reporters for the first time since the incident and revealed that he is still dealing with headaches... -
49ers training camp: Kyle Shanahan improving, NBA champion visits, injuries mount
The San Francisco 49ers held their sixth full training camp practice on Monday as they continued preparations for the 2026 NFL season. Head coach Kyle Shanahan continued to observe practice on Monday, spending a significant amount of time watching the session. He remains... -
49ers training camp: Purdy stays hot, defense flashes, Shanahan progresses
The San Francisco 49ers held their eighth full training camp practice on Thursday as they continued preparations for the 2026 NFL season. Thursday's practice was part of "87 Day," honoring franchise legend Dwight Clark while continuing the organization's annual effort to raise...