The San Francisco 49ers will open training camp with linebacker Fred Warner fully cleared, but defensive end Nick Bosa and tight end George Kittle face limitations.
Warner, who fractured his ankle in Week 6 last season, will begin camp without restrictions, according to general manager John Lynch. Lynch described Warner as being "full throttle" and noted that the All-Pro linebacker has been "basically a healthy player, just training" throughout the offseason. Warner spent his offseason working at the 49ers' facilities, a practice also followed by Bosa.
Bosa, who is recovering from his third career ACL tear sustained in Week 3, will initially be limited to individual drills. His activity will gradually increase as determined by the training staff. Lynch stated Bosa is doing "tremendous" but did not set a specific timeline for his return. Bosa has indicated his intention to be ready for the Week 1 game against the Rams in Australia. "Nick has always had a different schedule," Lynch said. "He’s got a great sense and a great instinct for his body and what he needs."
Kittle, who tore his Achilles tendon in the wild-card win over the Eagles on January 11, is one of four players who will start camp on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Other players on the PUP list include running back Isaac Guerendo, defensive tackle Alfred Collins, and defensive end Mykel Williams, the team's top draft pick who also suffered an ACL and meniscus tear. Kittle is "doing everything possible to be ready for Week 1," Lynch said, expressing satisfaction with his progress. Williams is also making an effort to be ready for the season opener, with medical staff markers determining his return.
Separately, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk will not be present at training camp. He was placed on the reserve/left squad list in December and remains there, preventing him from joining another team while not counting towards the 90-man roster limit. Lynch declined to comment extensively on Aiyuk's situation, stating the organization will focus on the players present and wishing Aiyuk and his family well.
Before addressing player statuses, Lynch also spoke about the recent death of former All-Pro defensive end Aldon Smith, who died last month at age 36. Lynch remembered Smith as a "special football player" and a "valued member of our organization" who had recently spoken to the team's rookies.