Albert Breer Empties His 49ers Notebook From Training Camp Stop in Santa Clara - Sports Illustrated

What the report says

Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reported from 49ers training camp in Santa Clara, California, that coach Kyle Shanahan is still easing back into his role after a July 14 car accident. Shanahan, entering his 10th season leading San Francisco, attended part of a Wednesday practice and observed alongside general manager John Lynch. Breer reported that offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak is currently handling the in-helmet communication to quarterback Brock Purdy, while the team has temporarily replaced Shanahan’s full-team meetings with separate offensive and defensive sessions.

According to Sports Illustrated, the 49ers are encouraged by Shanahan’s recovery, though the report noted his concussion symptoms remain a factor and that progress may not be steady day to day. The situation matters because Shanahan’s game-planning and meeting structure have been central to San Francisco’s identity during its recent run as an NFC contender.

Breer also highlighted several roster questions. At receiver, Ricky Pearsall’s PCL issue has created concern, while Christian Kirk is also dealing with an injury. De’Zhaun Stribling was described as an early standout, and Jacob Cowing and Jordan Watkins were identified as players who could become more important. On the offensive line, left guard remains unsettled, and the team is also sorting out depth behind Christian McCaffrey as it manages the workload of the veteran running back.

Defensively, Sports Illustrated reported optimism in the linebacker group with Fred Warner healthy and Dre Greenlaw back, while the secondary and defensive front remain key to the unit’s ceiling. Nick Bosa is nearing more full-team work, and several younger linemen are being watched closely in camp.