49ers Playoff Push: Kendricks Could Stabilize Linebackers

Injuries Have Complicated the 49ers Playoff Push

Injuries have stretched San Francisco’s depth thin, especially along the offensive line, defensive line, and linebacker group. At linebacker, the situation has gone from tough to dire.

Dee Winters has been the lone healthy starter. All-Pro Fred Warner suffered a season-ending broken ankle in Week 6.  His replacement, second-year standout Tatum Bethune, sprained his ankle in Week 11. That forced the 49ers to turn to practice-squad linebacker Curtis Robinson, who has started the past two games.

Teammates and coaches respect Robinson — he’s the team’s Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee for the second straight season — but he began the year as a third-stringer for a reason. As the 49ers enter the most critical stretch of the season, the coaching staff may need a more proven option.

Why Eric Kendricks Makes Sense Now

There’s optimism that Bethune could return for the next matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Kendricks would provide a more reliable option next to Winters if Bethune needs another week to fully recover.

At 33, Kendricks hasn’t played this season and may no longer be the player he once was. Nevertheless, he brings experience, anticipation, and a résumé that still holds weight. Over 10 NFL seasons — eight of them leading the Minnesota Vikings defense — Kendricks has totaled 1,174 tackles, 21.5 sacks, and 11 interceptions.

It’s no secret that Kyle Shanahan wanted to sign him last year to start alongside Warner. Kendricks ended up signing with the Dallas Cowboys. Kendricks could provide the steady presence the defense has been missing, even as the unit has held strong despite injuries to Warner, defensive end Nick Bosa, and others.  Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh’s unit has played team football to keep the opponents off the scoreboard, a big reason why the 49ers are on a three-game win streak and in playoff position.

A Soft Landing Before the Schedule Toughens

If activated, the 49ers could ease Kendricks into action against the one-win Titans, a low-risk opportunity to shake off rust. After that, the team’s schedule ramps up against the Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts, and divisional rival Seattle Seahawks — all offenses with enough firepower to stress an already thin defense.

In a tight playoff race, the 49ers need reliable linebacker play. Whether Bethune returns quickly or not, Kendricks gives San Francisco a veteran option capable of stabilizing a youthful defense that has been performing well in the face of injury adversity.