San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga - Jeff Lewis/AP Photo
Big news coming out of the San Francisco 49ers training camp as there is an update on the Talanoa Hufanga injury. On Thursday, August 15th, safety Hufanga was scheduled to visit a doctor for an update on his ACL tear that he sustained in 2023. On Friday, August 16th, 49ers head coach, Kyle Shanahan provided an update on the safety’s recovery. Here is a look at the news, and what is next for the Hufanga.
Talanoa Hufanga Injury Update
In week 11 of the 2023 season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Hufanga went down with a non-contact injury. It was confirmed to be an ACL tear, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Thursday’s appointment for Hufanga was meant to give the 49ers a time frame for his return. On Friday, while speaking to the media, Shanahan provided updates to the media, and it is very good news.
Hufanga is now clear to take the next steps in his recovery process. He is healing well and his visit with the doctor went well. He will not be going up against players yet, but Shanahan explains he can do more football-related drills and be pushed more. This is set to start next week. If Hufanga continues to do well, Shanahan will see about easing the young safety into practicing with the team. With an offseason that feels as though it has been filled with contract drama and numerous injuries, this is a breath of fresh air for the San Francisco 49ers.
How Important is it for Hufanga’s Return?
Hufanga is a key player on this 49ers defense. The 2022 season for Hufanga was a major one. The safety made a name for himself. In 2023, then rookie, Ji’Ayir Brown came in following Hufanga’s injury and did very well. Between Brown and Tashaun Gipson, the 49ers defense continued to do well, but Hufanga was still missed. Hufanga is a player that can run all over the field and does well reading offenses. Like all players, there are areas for improvement such as finishing some tackles, but Hufanga is a strong player. It will be a big boost for the 49ers defense to have him back.
In 2023, prior to his injury, Hufanga had three interceptions, according to Pro Football Reference. He also had two quarterback hits and one tackle for loss. Hufanga is heading into his third season in the NFL and continues to grow as a player. In three years, the safety has had seven interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. He has also forced two fumbles and has had two sacks. Hufanga is a dominant presence and the 49ers should look forward to his return.
San Francisco 49ers Safety Depth
The good news is, the team will not need to rush Hufanga. He is healing well and could play in week one, but if they feel it is safer to keep him out, or even limited, that is okay. In the offseason, the 49ers did not re-sign Gipson, but there are other players available on the roster.
The 49ers have Brown in year two. The team will also have returning veteran George Odum. Odum is a key special teams player but can and is set to cover in Hufanga’s absence. In the 2024 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers selected Malik Mustapha in the fourth round. He is young, and the 49ers usually place rookies on special teams first, but the depth is there. If Hufanga is back in week one, that will be great, if he needs time, this core should be okay.
Hopefully, Hufanga can get back to where he left off, and even better. The good news for now is that Hufanga is progressing well from his ACL injury, and will hopefully be back practicing with the rest of the defense very soon.
