San Francisco 49ers: 5 Things to Look For Saturday vs. Broncos
Will Arik Armstead play?
Armstead was by all reports the best player on the 49ers defense during the early portion of training camp. He dominated all the 49ers offensive linemen in practices and was highly disruptive against the run and the pass.
However, he injured his left shoulder in one of the practices and missed the game against the Texans. The injury is not considered serious and if this was the regular season he would be playing, according to defensive coordinator Jim O’Neil (h/t Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee):
#49ers DC Jim O'Neil said of Arik Armstead's shoulder injury, which kept him out Sunday. "If it was a game, he would have played."
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) August 16, 2016
It is unclear if Armstead will play on Saturday. Though he was dressed in full pads in yesterday’s joint session with the Broncos, he remained on the sideline working with the strength and conditioning coach, per Maiocco:
#49ers DL Arik Armstead (left shoulder) is in full pads, but he’s working with strength and conditioning coach on the side.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) August 17, 2016
It would be a blow if Armstead misses this game on Saturday. It doesn’t affect his status as a starter for the regular season, but missing game time against a quality opponent is not ideal. The more game time he gets is better for his career development.
However, there are still two more games after this. Ultimately the 49ers defense needs him 100 percent healthy for the regular season.
Next: Which roster bubble players will step up?