Tevin Coleman left the NFC championship game early, but the 49ers expect he will be ready to play in Super Bowl LIV.
Kyle Shanahan described the running back’s dislocated shoulder as being of the Lethal Weapon variety, with staffers able to pop Coleman’s ailing shoulder back into place (via Matt Barrows of The Athletic, on Twitter). While this process was quite painful for Lethal Weapon 2-era Martin Riggs without the threat of any tackling, Shanahan expects Coleman to have a “good chance” to suit up for his second Super Bowl.
“I don’t want to speculate too much, but usually a week to rest it and usually gets back in and I expect him to have a chance to play,” Shanahan said Monday. “Can’t hold me to that. We’ll find out more, but I expect him to have a good chance to play.”
The 49ers have thrived on the ground despite their highest-paid running back, Jerick McKinnon, missing a second straight season. While Raheem Mostert and Matt Breida out-gained Coleman on the ground this year, the former Falcon rushed for 544 yards and six touchdowns this season. He returned from a high ankle sprain earlier this season but missed much of the 49ers’ historically dominant rushing day Sunday.
Mostert’s 220 rushing yards rank second in NFL playoff history, and Breida averaged 5.1 yards per carry during the regular season. San Francisco’s second-ranked rush offense may have the option of all three backs facing the Chiefs, however. Coleman gained 35 scrimmage yards and caught a touchdown pass in Super Bowl LI.
Sure hell be Livid if he can’t play
Kittle has been almost a non factor in the playoffs producing just 35 yards of offense. I’d expect Shanahan to get him more involved if Coleman can’t contribute.
How much have they needed him in 2 blowouts dominated by the run game?
His blocking has been great.
He has been making crucial blocks that enable the run game to be so dominant. But yes, I’d like to see him get some catches and run some dudes over too.
He is one of the best blocking TEs un the game too and gas produced immensely this aspect.
He’s a TE now too? Look out Kittle, he’s coming for your job!
Just don’t stand behind him, rumor has it he produces immense gas.