Juszczyk suffered a knee sprain and bone bruise in Week 4 against the Denver Broncos. Initially, the timeline projected a two-to-three-week absence. “It looked bad at the beginning, and they said they thought it would be three weeks,” head coach Kyle Shanahan said. “Juice has always been fast every time he’s ever been hurt, but this was really impressive.” Juszczyk was limited at practice on Thursday before practicing fully on Friday and Saturday, and he carries no injury designation entering Monday, indicating he’s officially available.
The return of Juszczyk is welcome, but the injury list remains lengthy. Defensive end Nick Bosa has been ruled out again as he continues to work through an injury that has kept him out since Week 3. Shanahan noted that while optimism about Bosa’s recovery was genuine, the team wants him fully healthy before bringing him back. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel is out with a hamstring strain. Receiver Mike Evans is listed as questionable after missing all three practices this week due to Achilles soreness and a rib injury; his status for Monday will be determined, though he has previously suited up on game day without practicing during the week.
On a positive note, defensive tackle James Thompson Jr. is set to return after missing time with a high ankle sprain. The 49ers also opened a practice window for cornerback Christian Kirk this week, with Shanahan saying he could possibly play Monday.
Juszczyk’s return elevates a team that has thrived without a full complement of players. With Juszczyk back, the 49ers add another versatile piece to a roster that has managed to stay undefeated through five games. As bodies come back one by one, the 49ers’ depth continues to shape what this team can accomplish as they head into Monday night’s matchup.
