Talanoa Hufanga: 49ers All-Pro Safety Exits Game Early Due to Knee Injury

San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga suffered a significant right knee injury during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and it may sideline him for an extended period, possibly the rest of the 2023 season.

After the 49ers secured a 27-14 victory, Coach Kyle Shanahan expressed concern about Hufanga's injury, hinting at the likelihood of an ACL injury.

Shanahan stated that while they could not confirm it yet, it is "most likely" the end of Hufanga's season, NBC Sports noted.

Shanahan shared, "I'm a little concerned. We don't know for sure, but most likely it's [an] ACL. We can't confirm it, so we'll find out later."

Hufanga, seen leaving the locker room with crutches and a knee brace, is scheduled for an MRI on Monday to provide a more conclusive assessment of the extent of the injury.

Talanoa Hufanga Injury

During the third quarter with 8:40 remaining, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield made a short pass to running back Rachaad White in the right flat.

As White advanced, San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga closed in for the tackle.

Unfortunately, Hufanga fell for an inside fake from White, who then sprinted past him, gaining 11 yards.

In the process, Hufanga's right knee seemed to buckle as he tried to turn with White's cut, per ESPN.

Following the play, Hufanga was slow to get up and headed straight to the medical tent on the sideline.

After spending a few minutes there, he was taken to the locker room on a cart and was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Rookie Ji'Ayir Brown, a third-round pick from Penn State, stepped in for Hufanga at strong safety.

Despite some initial challenges, including allowing a long completion that led to Tampa Bay's second touchdown, Brown redeemed himself with a crucial fourth-down pass breakup and an interception in San Francisco's end zone.

These plays played a significant role in preserving the 49ers' victory.

Christian McCaffrey, the running back, expressed concern for Hufanga, saying, "Praying for Huf, hopefully it's nothing serious."

McCaffrey commended Ji'Ayir Brown for stepping up, highlighting the preparation and leadership demonstrated by Hufanga that contributed to Brown's readiness to take on the role.

Talanoa Hufanga and Ji'Ayir Brown

Before Sunday's game, Talanoa Hufanga had an impressive season with three interceptions and 51 tackles.

The third-year professional transitioned to a full-time starting role in 2022, thriving under former defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans, according to Bleacher Report.

Hufanga earned a Pro Bowl nod and All-Pro honors last season, solidifying his status as a standout player.

He was also recognized by his peers, securing the 78th spot on NFL Network's top 100 list for the 2023 season.

If Hufanga is sidelined for an extended period, Ji'Ayir Brown is anticipated to step in as the backup.

Brown, a 23-year-old selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft from Penn State, has been primarily utilized on special teams throughout the season.

Despite limited playing time, he showcased his abilities on Sunday when called upon to relieve Hufanga, earning praise from Coach Shanahan.

Brown's first career interception played a crucial role in securing the victory, leaving Shanahan impressed with the rookie's performance.

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Written by: Bert Hoover

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