San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan narrowly avoided losing an eye in a serious car crash on July 14, according to a close friend. The accident, which occurred near his home in Palo Alto, California, left Shanahan with multiple injuries, including a broken nose, three fractured ribs, a broken hand, and a severe concussion.
Chris Simms, an NFL analyst and longtime friend of Shanahan, described the extent of the coach's injuries after seeing graphic photos. "He was this close to maybe losing his right eye, right? The scar is so big right here," Simms stated on Pro Football Talk Live, emphasizing the severity of the facial cuts and the potential for permanent vision loss. Simms added that Shanahan is still dealing with lingering issues from the concussion.
The collision involved Shanahan's vehicle and an SUV. According to reports, the other driver was uninjured, and no drugs or alcohol were involved. Dispatch audio from the scene indicated that one driver was "bleeding from the head."
Despite the severity of his injuries, Shanahan was released from a local hospital the same day as the crash. He has since been pictured observing 49ers training camp, signaling progress in his recovery. Assistant head coach Chris Foerster and new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris are expected to assume larger roles during training camp due to Shanahan's limitations.
General Manager John Lynch expressed confidence in Shanahan's recovery, stating that the expectation is for the coach to be healthy enough to lead the team for their season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on September 10 in Melbourne. Sean McVay, head coach of the Rams and a friend of Shanahan, conveyed his concern and well wishes, emphasizing the importance of Shanahan's recovery and well-being.