San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan is dealing with non-life-threatening injuries sustained in a car crash earlier this month, forcing him to miss 49ers training camp on a limited basis.
Tennessee Titans coach Robert Saleh has spoken with Shanahan since the accident, and expressed his gratitude for the 49ers coach's fortunate recovery. "Thank God he's OK. Thank God his family is in tact," Saleh said. Saleh and Shanahan have a long history dating back to 2006, when Saleh was a quality control coach with the Houston Texans and Shanahan was the team's wide receivers coach.
Shanahan and Saleh have worked together across nine NFL seasons, including a stint with the 49ers from 2017 to 2025. Saleh was Shanahan's first defensive coordinator in San Francisco, and helped coach the 49ers to a 12-5 record and a playoff appearance in the NFC West. Despite significant injury issues, the team still managed to achieve a successful season.
The 49ers are expected to meet the Titans for a joint practice on August 11 in Santa Clara, with a preseason matchup to follow on August 13. However, no formal declarations have been made about Shanahan's availability for these matchups. Saleh said that Shanahan is "doing great" and "looks great" after their FaceTime conversation, but it remains to be seen if the 49ers coach will be able to return to the team's facility in time for the start of the regular season.
Shanahan's injuries are a major concern for the 49ers, particularly with the team's upcoming schedule. The 49ers will face a tough competition in the NFC West, which includes the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams. The team's ability to recover from injuries and adapt to new challenges will be crucial to their success this season.
The Titans, meanwhile, are preparing for their own training camp, which kicks off on July 29. Saleh's team will look to build on their previous season's success, and the joint practice with the 49ers will provide valuable insight into the team's strengths and weaknesses. The preseason matchup will also give the Titans a chance to test their skills against a strong opponent.
Source: Yahoo Sports