San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan made an appearance at the team’s first training camp practice on Sunday, less than two weeks after being involved in a car crash. Shanahan, who sustained a concussion and other injuries, watched practice for approximately 30 minutes alongside general manager John Lynch. His presence was noted by players, including star linebacker Fred Warner, who commented on Shanahan’s dedication.
Following the July 14 crash in Palo Alto, Shanahan has temporarily transferred his responsibilities to assistant head coach and offensive line coach Chris Foerster. Shanahan’s injuries include a concussion, broken ribs, a broken nose, and a broken hand. During his appearance at practice, he wore a cast on his left hand and sunglasses to cover a black eye. He also sported a new mustache, which Warner humorously referred to as a “disguise.”
Shanahan interacted with several players on the field, such as Warner, Kyle Juszczyk, Christian McCaffrey, and Dre Greenlaw, before departing. Star tackle Trent Williams noted that it would be challenging to keep Shanahan away from the team, describing him as someone who is not inclined to rest.
Foerster Takes the Helm
With Shanahan recovering, Chris Foerster has stepped in to lead the team. Foerster has a long history in the NFL, spanning more than three decades, beginning as an assistant offensive line and tight ends coach in Minnesota in 1993. He joined the 49ers in 2019 and had previously spent four seasons with Washington when Shanahan was offensive coordinator and Mike Shanahan was head coach.
Foerster stated that he is relying heavily on his assistant coaches, specifically coordinators Klay Kubiak, Raheem Morris, and Brant Boyer. He mentioned that while most of the practice plan was established before Shanahan’s accident, he has taken on duties such as breaking the team after practice, conducting news conferences, and making decisions on minor practice elements, like whether to repeat or skip a play after a pre-snap penalty.
Despite Shanahan’s absence from day-to-day leadership, the team is described as being on “auto pilot” due to its veteran roster and experienced coaching staff. Trent Williams expressed pride in Foerster taking on the head coach role, highlighting their long-standing relationship and considering Foerster as family.
Foerster also shared a personal connection with Shanahan, referring to him as one of his closest friends. He expressed gratitude to Shanahan, John Lynch, and the York family for their support during a challenging period in his life, emphasizing that their loyalty would not be forgotten.
Player Updates and Team News
In other team news, defensive end Nick Bosa participated in individual drills at the start of training camp, marking his return from a torn ACL suffered in Week 3 last season. Bosa worked on his own during team drills, and Trent Williams remarked that Bosa appeared to be in better condition than before his injury.
Offensive lineman Vederian Lowe left practice early due to an ankle injury. Cornerback Nate Hobbs was the only active player not participating in practice. The 49ers also signed defensive tackle Kevin Givens, who has played 70 games for San Francisco between 2019 and 2025, a day after releasing Evan Anderson.
Foerster indicated that Connor Colby would be given the first opportunity to secure the starting left guard position. Colby started six games as a seventh-round rookie during the previous season.
Details of the Accident
The car accident involving Kyle Shanahan occurred on July 14. News of the incident was not publicly reported until Saturday, coinciding with the first day of the team’s 2026 training camp. Reports suggest that the 49ers aimed to keep the accident quiet for 11 days.
The disclosure of the accident involved a coordinated release of information. The 49ers posted their statement at 12:00 p.m. ET on Saturday. Shortly after, an article about the accident was published at 12:02 p.m. ET, providing details such as injury specifics and information from local law enforcement confirming that alcohol or drugs were not factors and no one was cited for the crash.
Source: newsday.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.