The San Francisco 49ers took advantage of early travel and a Myles Garrett injury to dominate the Los Angeles Rams in a 27-7 win in Week 1 in Melbourne, Australia. The 49ers outgained the Rams 379-290 in total yards, showing promise that San Francisco's offense can be elite with a healthy Brock Purdy. On Wednesday, the 49ers were dealt a double dose of devastating news for the offense.
Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, tight end Jake Tonges will miss the rest of the season after having surgery for a torn MCL. More news: Exclusive: Breakout NFL Executives Who Could Become Future General Managers More news: 4 QBs Generating Serious Trade Buzz Weeks Before NFL Regular Season Starts "49ers TE Jake Tonges will be out for the season after undergoing surgery for a torn MCL," Schefter posted on X. 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan also revealed that rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling would miss approximately the next 10 weeks after having surgery on his ankle. "49ers WR De’Zhaun Stribling had surgery on his ankle and will miss 'close to' 10 weeks, per Kyle Shanahan," Mick Wagoner posted on X.
The 49ers had high hopes for Stribling, who they took in the second round of this year's draft after a stellar final season at Ole Miss in 2025. He recorded no stats against the Rams before he suffered the ankle injury in the second quarter. Initial reports suggested Stribling would miss at least a month, but a 10-week timeline would put his return date near the end of November.
Tonges also suffered the MCL injury in the second quarter. Shanahan foreshadowed Wednesday's news when he told reporters after the game that "it wasn't good." The 49ers will need their veteran targets to step up with Tonges and Stribling out. The 49ers have Mike Evans, Deebo Samuel, and George Kittle to carry the load.
Demarcus Robinson led San Francisco in receiving with two catches for 50 yards and a touchdown against the Rams. For more on the 49ers and the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.
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