San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga will miss the rest of the season due to a torn ACL in his right knee. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the diagnosis, adding that there was no other extensive damage to the knee and that Hufanga is expected to recover before next season.
The injury to Hufanga means that third-round rookie Ji’Ayir Brown will step into the lineup for the Niners defense. Brown had only played 30 defensive snaps all season prior to taking on a bigger role against the Buccaneers.
Tampa Bay attempted to target Brown, but he rose to the challenge. In his first real test in the NFL, he broke up a crucial fourth down pass and then intercepted a pass in the end zone, helping to secure the win for the 49ers.
After the game, Brown expressed his consistent preparation and hard work, emphasizing his readiness to execute when his number was called.
Brown had a strong showing in the game, finishing with four tackles and three passes defensed, displaying the same level of play that the 49ers had seen in recent practices.
Coach Shanahan commended Brown’s preparation and focus, highlighting his impressive readiness as a rookie and expressing excitement for his opportunities ahead.
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