Collins Out, 49ers Defense Struggles | San Francisco 49ers News

The 49ers’ season opener just got a lot tougher: defensive tackle Alfred Collins tore his patellar tendon in practice and will miss the entire year. A key contributor last season who forced a fumble against the Rams, his absence hits hard for a defense already thin on talent and sacks. With Mykel Williams also sidelined, the team now relies on Osa Odighizuwa and rookie C.J. West to carry the load — and with barely any depth behind them, the defensive line’s burden just got heavier. Already overseas for the game, the 49ers face an uphill battle to start strong without their anchor. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/83e84e3ea46034b1