San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges suffered a knee injury in the second quarter of the team's season opener against the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The injury occurred while Tonges was attempting to block Rams star Myles Garrett. He was initially listed as questionable to return but was later carted to the locker room.
Tonges' injury marks another personnel setback for the 49ers during their time in Melbourne. The team had already lost starting defensive tackle Alfred Collins to a torn patellar tendon during the week. Rookie receiver De’Zhaun Stribling also exited the game earlier with an ankle injury and was carted to the locker room. Stribling had been considered a prominent Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
The extended absence of Tonges could challenge San Francisco's depth at the tight end position, which relies heavily on George Kittle. Tonges became a crucial replacement for Kittle in the 2025 season when Kittle missed six regular-season games, recording 29 receptions for 269 yards and three touchdowns during that span. He earned a two-year, $8 million contract in the offseason. Luke Farrell is the other tight end on the 49ers' active roster.
