The 49ers escaped Sunday's meaningless regular season finale, a 21-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams - mostly healthy. But they were not completely unscathed.
Defensive end Clelin Ferrell, who started all 17 games for the 49ers this season, suffered a knee injury in the first half of Sunday's game. He was promptly ruled out, which begged the question as to whether it was a serious injury or a precautionary approach given the odd circumstances.
Kyle Shanahan said after the game that the knee injury did not involve an ACL or MCL injury, but that it's possible Ferrell could miss at least the first game of the playoffs. Shanahan also said safety Tayler Hawkins suffered a wrist injury, but did not provide any further update.
The more optimistic diagnosis came from Ferrell himself. The Athletic's Matt Barrows reported that he spoke to Ferrell, who described his removal from the game as precautionary.
While Ferrell has not been a star on a star-studded defense, he has provided a reliable, solid presence on the edge.
His physicality and ability to maintain gaps has made him a useful, early-down player. He has not been an elite pass rusher, but he has 31 pressures and 3.5 sacks this season. The 49ers will want him back for the playoffs, especially as defensive tackle Arik Armstead's status remains uncertain with foot and knee injuries.