Shanahan Makes Brief Camp Appearance as 49ers Begin 2026 Preparations Under Foerster

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan made a brief appearance at the team’s opening training camp practice on Sunday, less than two weeks after suffering a car accident that caused a concussion and multiple fractures. Shanahan stood alongside general manager John Lynch and observed the session for approximately 30 minutes before departing the field. The veteran coach, who has been a fixture with the organization for over a decade, wore a cast on his left hand, sunglasses covering a black eye, and a new mustache that drew comment from players.

Shanahan sustained a concussion, broken ribs, a fractured nose and a broken hand in the July 14 crash near Palo Alto. He will not resume full coaching duties until his concussion symptoms resolve, with assistant head coach and offensive line coach Chris Foerster temporarily assuming command of the team. Shanahan interacted with several players including linebacker Fred Warner, running back Christian McCaffrey, and tackle Trent Williams during his visit.

Foerster, who has worked in the NFL for more than 30 years, is relying heavily on his coordinators—Klay Kubiak, Raheem Morris and Brant Boyer—to maintain continuity. The coach said few operational changes have been necessary beyond his handling of administrative duties and limited practice decisions. The team’s veteran roster and established coaching staff have allowed operations to proceed smoothly despite Shanahan’s absence.

Defensive end Nick Bosa participated in individual drills as he continues his return from a torn ACL suffered in Week 3 of last season, though he did not participate in team drills. Offensive lineman Vederian Lowe left practice early with an ankle injury, while cornerback Nate Hobbs was the only active player sidelined. The 49ers signed defensive tackle Kevin Givens and named rookie Connor Colby as the leading candidate for the starting left guard position.