SANTA CLARA— The 49ers enter their last two games already out of the running for the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 NFL season. The idea that elite athletes should refrain from participating in the game in order to prevent injuries is only discussed outside the building. Not even the slightest indication of less pressure or effort to get ready for the Detroit Lions’ visit on Monday night is present in the 49ers’ locker room, particularly from coach Kyle Shanahan.
When asked how he is leading his team, Shanahan responded, “Got to tell them welcome to the reality of the world.” That, in my opinion, is a testament to some of the circumstances we’ve faced over the past few years. But you play for other reasons as well. You are putting on a 49er uniform; this is your duty.
Shanahan thinks the 49ers’ strategy hasn’t altered since they learnt their playoff chances were lost right before the start of their Week 16 loss to the Dolphins. After San Francisco’s Week 15 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, the writing was already on the wall. Despite knowing that their season is gone after only two more games, Nick Bosa and Fred Warner insist that the locker room mentality is as set in stone as ever.
“I believe it’s good,” Bosa remarked. “Obviously, this time of year is not the best time to be there. It’s not the same. especially considering where we stood against this team the previous season. I had become accustomed to the sensation of football in December and January. Being in the mix and being fiercely competitive, but I believe we are doing a fantastic job of remaining involved, and because this is our job, we will undoubtedly finish strongly.
If Warner missed the 49ers’ last two games, it wouldn’t be questioned because he has been playing with an ankle fracture since Week 4. However, it’s clear from speaking with the All-Pro that the idea has never—and will never—cross his mind. “I never could,” Warner remarked. “I will definitely be playing. If you are able and willing, you must always be on the pitch with the 49ers red on you, regardless of the circumstances, because I believe there is an integrity to the game and to your team.
The roster looks different than it did in Week 1 with 15 players on injured reserve, two more expected to be added, and one on the physically unable to perform list (PUP), but Warner and Bosa will not use that as an excuse. They will play with the same level of effort that they would if they had a chance. Shanahan stated, “We all enter this because we hope to qualify for that tournament and have an opportunity to attend a Super Bowl.” “Teams from all around the league are in this predicament, but many of our guys aren’t used to it since they haven’t been in it before.
“You must continue to perform in the same manner because, once you begin to doubt the need to put in your best effort, you will typically be closer to the end than the beginning.”