The San Francisco 49ers announced that head coach Kyle Shanahan was injured in a car crash earlier this month, with injuries that include a severe concussion, a broken nose, three broken ribs, a broken hand, and 40 stitches to his face, though non-life-threatening.

Shanahan is in concussion protocol and will be limited in participation as training camp begins, with no fixed timetable for his return.

In his absence, the plan is a collaborative leadership structure where each side of the ball is led by its coordinators, with occasional joint team gatherings rather than a single head coach directing everything.

General manager John Lynch praised Foerster’s 34-year NFL coaching experience and his close working relationship with Shanahan, highlighting credibility and leadership within the organization.

Updates on the situation are ongoing, described as a developing story with new information expected.

The 49ers expressed gratitude to the first responders who assisted at the crash scene.

The team is prepared to push forward with interim leadership and a focus on recovery as training camp proceeds.

The preseason opener is scheduled for August 13 at home against the Tennessee Titans, with the regular-season opener set for September 11 in Melbourne, Australia, against the Los Angeles Rams.

Foerster’s background includes past cocaine and alcohol addiction and years of recovery, a factor cited in discussions of accountability and rehabilitation within the coaching staff.

Peer support from fellow coaches and the broader NFL community, including Sean McVay, underscored the hope for Shanahan’s strong recovery.

Shanahan owns a 91-72 record in regular season and playoffs, ranking third in 49ers history behind Seifert and Walsh.

Foerster has been with the 49ers since 2019 and recently promoted to assistant head coach; Morris has head coaching experience and will play a key role alongside new offensive leadership.