This year has been rough for the San Francisco 49ers in terms of the injury front. We've seen some big names go down with serious injuries which have significantly impacted the team's season outlook.
But, with four games to play, the Niners are still well-within reach of a division title and ultimately, a playoff berth.
The real work begins right now, with a huge divisional matchup.
While this season's injuries have been a dark cloud hanging over the Niners, for the most part, things are starting to trend in a positive direction. Going into Thursday Night Football against the Rams, San Francisco is finally going to see a major defensive name make his debut.
Dre Greenlaw is set to make his return following an Achilles injury in Super Bowl LVIII
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who tore his Achilles in the Super Bowl earlier this year, is set to play his first regular season snaps of 2024. During a season that's featured a plethora of bad news on the injury front, this is a welcomed bit of good news.
While Greenlaw will reportedly be "eased back in," his presence alone will be a lift for the Niners defense as a whole.
Greenlaw had been coming off a pair of 120-plus-tackles seasons in both 2022 and 2023, also adding a total of 10 pass breakups, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and a defensive score. His absence has been one main reason why this defense hasn't looked the same.
San Francisco is also going to see rookie running back Isaace Guerendo suit up just days after suffering a foot injury which many thought could have kept him out multiple games. Instead, the Louisville product will continue showing Kyle Shanahan he's more than capable filling in for the likes of Christian McCaffrey.
Trent Williams, Ben Bartch, and Malik Mustapha have all unfortunately been ruled out prior to Thursday. But, there's still hope for more good news in the near future.
Defensive end Nick Bosa might make his return tonight after missing the last three games due to a hip/oblique injury. With Bosa and Greenlaw back on the field together, this defense could start to show even more life just in time to make a run.