San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan sustained significant injuries, including a broken nose, three fractured ribs, and a broken hand, in a car accident earlier this month. He also required over 40 stitches to his face and suffered a severe concussion.
NFL analyst Chris Simms, a close friend of Shanahan, shared details of the July 14 accident, stating that the coach "was this close to maybe losing his right eye." Simms described seeing photos from Shanahan's wife, Mandy, shortly after the crash, noting the injuries were "jarring."
The 49ers organization confirmed that Shanahan suffered non-life-threatening injuries and will participate in team activities on a limited basis as he recovers. "Coach Shanahan and the 49ers organization would like to sincerely thank all first responders involved for their efforts and care," the team said in a statement.
Simms indicated that Shanahan was emotional about the incident, realizing the severity of the potential consequences. Shanahan is also reportedly concerned about the other driver involved in the collision.
Shanahan was observed at the 49ers' training camp wearing a baseball hat and sunglasses. General Manager John Lynch confirmed that Shanahan would be following concussion protocols due to the head injury.
Assistant head coach Chris Foerster is expected to handle some of Shanahan's duties during his recovery. The 49ers are scheduled to open their season on Sept. 10 against the Los Angeles Rams, in what will be the first NFL game played in Australia.