Key offensive line returns boost Eagles' hopes. 49ers scramble with depleted linebacker corps, threatening defensive depth.
The San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles are both navigating significant injury situations ahead of their NFC Wild Card showdown on Saturday, with each team facing roster questions that could directly impact how this game unfolds.
Eagles Injury Notes
Philadelphia received encouraging news early in the week, particularly along the offensive line.
Right tackle Lane Johnson practiced Wednesday for the first time in months, a major development for an Eagles offense that relies heavily on winning in the trenches. While Johnson’s return isn’t guaranteed yet, his participation is a strong indicator that he’s trending toward playing. His availability would be a massive boost.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio also said he expects linebacker Nakobe Dean to play. Dean has been a key communicator and run defender when healthy.
One situation worth monitoring is Jalen Carter, who appeared on last week’s injury report with a hip issue. Carter’s status will be closely watched as the week progresses, as his interior presence could be pivotal against San Francisco’s run game.
Eagles Players on IR / Status Updates
- S Andrew Mukuba (IR, eligible): Mukuba recorded 46 tackles and two interceptions as a rookie before landing on IR. Marcus Epps has filled in.
- WR Johnny Wilson (IR, out for season): Finished his rookie year with five catches for 38 yards and a touchdown.
- EDGE Ogbo Okoronkwo (IR, triceps): Played just four snaps this season before injury.
- EDGE Azeez Ojulari (IR): His 21-day practice window has opened, though he currently sits deep on the depth chart.
- FB Ben VanSumeren (IR, out for season): Tore his patellar tendon on the opening kickoff of the year.
- iOL Willie Lampkin & OT Myles Hinton (IR, season over): Both had practice windows expire and will not return in 2025.
49ers Injury Notes: Linebacker Depth Tested Again
San Francisco’s injury situation remains most concerning on defense, particularly at linebacker.
Trent Williams did not practice Wednesday after missing Week 18 with a hamstring injury. While he is expected to play, it’s clear he’s not at full strength, and lingering hamstring issues can be unpredictable, especially for a lineman asked to anchor against elite pass rushers.
Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco’s most reliable deep threat, also missed practice Wednesday after sitting out the season finale. His availability would be critical for stretching Philadelphia’s secondary. Defensive end, Yetur Gross-Mateos is also questionable with a knee injury.
The linebacker room is where the 49ers are most depleted. Fred Warner has been out since Week 6, and his replacement, Tatum Bethune, suffered a season-ending groin tear in Week 18.
Bethune had stepped in admirably, posting 94 tackles, one sack, and four pass breakups, but his absence leaves a significant void.
Dee Winters, who started the season opposite Warner and finished second on the team in snaps, did not practice Wednesday with an ankle injury. Winters recorded 101 tackles, a pick-six, and five pass breakups in 2025.
Luke Gifford (quad) was limited. Gifford earned a Pro Bowl nod for his special teams play and logged defensive snaps in 15 games this season.
Taking over for Bethune will be veteran Eric Kendricks, who brings experience but limited recent game action. Kendricks totaled 138 tackles, three sacks, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions for Dallas in 2024, though he’s appeared in just three games for San Francisco this season.
49ers Players on IR / Notable Absences
- LB Fred Warner (IR): Four-time First-Team All-Pro; had 51 tackles and two forced fumbles in six games.
- DE Nick Bosa (IR, season over): Recorded two sacks and two forced fumbles before tearing his ACL.
- WR Brandon Aiyuk (Left Team): Contract and injury situation has been interesting this season.
- DE Mykel Williams (IR): Rookie first-rounder tore his ACL after starting nine games.
- OG Ben Bartch (IR): Key interior depth option if injuries arise mid-game.
- LB Nick Martin: Primarily a special teams contributor, but notable given linebacker attrition.
Big Picture
The Eagles appear to be trending healthier at key positions, particularly up front, while the 49ers are once again relying on depth and veterans, especially at linebacker. San Francisco’s ability to withstand injuries has defined much of its season, but the margin for error is somehow even thinner than ever as the playoffs begin.
Final injury designations will be confirmed closer to kickoff, but availability could ultimately decide this Wild Card matchup in Philadelphia.