USA TODAY Sports

Ambry Thomas proved his toughness in the 49ers' win against the Commanders.

Kyle Shanahan revealed today on a conference call that Thomas had a broken hand going into that game. He had every reason to sit out of the game, but elected to play with a cast on instead. 

However, Thomas is now set to have surgery this week on his broken hand. So, he will not be available for the season finale versus the Rams. The good news is that Thomas is not expected to miss anything than that game. 

"It would only be this week, said Shanahan. "I think they even told me before the Washington game that he would get surgery this Tuesday and there could still be an outside chance to play this Sunday. So, I doubt that we would risk that now in this situation that we're in, but that makes me feel pretty confident for our next game he will be available.” 

Thomas getting surgery now continues to show how valuable it was for the 49ers to clinch the NFC's No. 1 seed this past week. Thanks to that, the 49ers have nothing to play for in Week 18. Players who have injuries, or sudden surgeries, can take care of that. The 49ers basically have a two week Bye, which is so crucial for them at this time. 

Losing Thomas for the year would've stung the 49ers. He has played a huge role into why the defense has improved in coverage since the Bye week. With Thomas out, I would presume that Jason Verrett or even Darrell Luter Jr. gets some work in for this game.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Scottie Scheffler collects his fifth win of 2024 at Memorial
Watch: Liberty's Jonquel Jones scores season-high 29 points in win vs. Mystics
Report: Phillies showing trade interest in Diamondbacks outfielder
Caitlin Clark reveals thoughts about not being on Olympic team
Giants tight end announces decision on NFL future
Chiefs WR Rashee Rice: 'I’ve learned so much'
Wrigley Field match breaks the NWSL attendance record
Ryan Garcia arrested on vandalism charge
WWE preparing for potential loss of elite high-flyer
Watch: Mets mount wild rally, turn incredible double play to stun Phillies
Flames trying to discreetly move former Vezina Trophy runner-up
Watch: Carlos Alcaraz makes history with first French Open title
White Sox designate former Rule 5 pick for assignment
Former Sharks player 'deep in the process' of becoming team's head coach
Sergei Bobrovsky leads Panthers to Game 1 victory over Oilers
Caitlin Clark reportedly will be left off Olympic roster
Iga Swiatek cruises to third consecutive French Open title
Watch: 17-1 underdog Dornoch wins Belmont Stakes
Mavericks HC gives bold Jaylen Brown take
Scottie Scheffler overcomes terrible hole to keep lead at Memorial