© Kelley L Cox | 2018 Aug 9
The 49ers’ 24-21 win in their preseason opener over the Cowboys was overshadowed by four injuries to key players sustained in the game’s first quarter. Linebacker Malcolm Smith (hamstring), tight end George Kittle (shoulder), defensive lineman Solomon Thomas (head), running back Matt Breida (shoulder), all were forced out during the first few series and never returned.
Linebacker Eli Harold also left later in the game with a lower leg injury, and offensive lineman Gary Gilliam exited early with a head injury.
During his postgame press conference, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan provided some minor updates on the status of four players.
“Off the top of my head I know that Kittle and Breida have shoulder injuries and it’s going to be some time,” Shanahan said. “I don’t know how long but I have a feeling it’s going to be some time. I’d be surprised if they are around next week.
“I know (Solomon Thomas) and Gilliam, they left with concussion symptoms early.”
Smith, Kittle, and Thomas are all expected to receive significant playing time in Week 1 if healthy.