Tue Dec 31 00:30:00 UTC 2024: **49ers to Rely on New Recruits Against Lions Amidst Offensive Line Injuries**

SANTA CLARA, CA – The San Francisco 49ers will face the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football with a depleted offensive line, relying on newly signed players to fill the gaps. Key injuries have sidelined left guard Aaron Banks (knee), left tackles Trent Williams (ankle) and Jaylon Moore (quad), all placed on injured reserve. Swing offensive lineman Spencer Burford is also dealing with a calf injury.

However, there is some positive news: right tackle Colton McKivitz, who missed most of the week with a knee injury, will be active. To bolster the line, the 49ers recently signed Austen Pleasants and Charlie Heck, who will both play against the Lions. Practice squad player Drake Nugent has also been elevated to the active roster.

While the offensive line faces challenges, the defensive side looks stronger. Safety Ji’Ayir Brown will return for the final home game. Earlier in the season, the team also saw the successful return of several key defensive players, including linebacker Dre Greenlaw, defensive lineman Nick Bosa, safety Talanoa Hufanga, defensive back Deommodore Lenoir, and defensive lineman Jordan Elliott from various injuries. Quarterback Brock Purdy also overcame injury to return to action earlier this year. The team did, however, have to contend with absences of key players like Trent Williams and George Kittle at other points in the season. Several games saw up to seven players inactive due to various injuries.

Read More