49ers Rookie Gracen Halton Out For Season After Ankle Fracture

Blow for San Francisco defense

The San Francisco 49ers suffered a big injury blow during their 38-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Rookie defensive tackle Gracen Halton broke his left ankle late in the fourth quarter and will miss the remainder of the season.

With four minutes left to play and San Francisco leading by 21 points, defensive end Keion White rolled into Halton's left foot. Halton went to the ground in pain before medical staff placed an air cast on his leg and carted him off the field. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed after the game that the rookie's season is finished after eight appearances.

Shanahan praised the fourth round pick from Oklahoma, saying Halton played at a very high level and that the team will miss him a lot.

Halton's impressive start cut short

Before the injury, Halton was enjoying a strong first year in the league. He started six games this season, recording 15 tackles, two sacks, and five tackles for loss. His presence on the defensive line gave the team solid production.

Teammates also appreciated his work ethic and enthusiasm. Defensive end Nick Bosa noted that the young defender brought great energy to the squad.

The loss of Halton adds to the pressure on the defensive line, though C.J. West is getting close to coming back from a knee injury on injured reserve.

Injury concerns mount across the squad

The 49ers also finished the game with major concerns in the secondary. Starting cornerbacks Deommodore Lenoir and Renardo Green both went off injured. Green hurt his back after landing awkwardly following a fourth quarter interception, while Lenoir suffered a foot injury near the end of the match.

San Francisco finished the game with only two healthy cornerbacks available in Upton Stout and rookie Ephesians Prysock. However, veteran Nate Hobbs could return from his adductor injury next week against the Dallas Cowboys.

The team has wide receiver news as well. Demarcus Robinson returned to action, and Deebo Samuel is getting closer to a return from a hamstring problem. Mike Evans and De'Zhaun Stribling remain out with longer recovery timelines.

Trade deadline options

These fresh injury problems come right before Tuesday's NFL trade deadline. San Francisco previously sent a 2027 fourth round pick to the Indianapolis Colts for defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, but the team still lacks depth at receiver and cornerback.

Shanahan said the team is actively looking at potential moves to help the roster. He explained that management is working hard to see which players are available and if any potential trades make sense for the franchise.