Jason Verrett, a long-time cornerback for the 49ers, appears to be facing continuous misfortune. As he enters his 10th season in the NFL, Verrett is set to undergo another devastating surgery, marking the eighth time in his career. Recently, during a practice session, Verrett sustained a shoulder injury that demands surgery on his rotator cuff, effectively ending his season.
Injuries have significantly impacted Verrett’s professional journey. After being selected as the 25th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft for the Chargers, he has faced consecutive setbacks, missing two complete seasons and experiencing eight shortened seasons due to various injuries such as foot injuries, torn ACLs, and torn Achilles tendons. Although he was sidelined for ten games during his rookie year because of three labrum tears and a rotator cuff tear, this current injury affecting his upper body marks the first of its kind since then.
San Francisco’s loss of Verrett is significant for the team, despite already securing the top playoff seed in the NFC. As the 49ers’ playoff seeding is already decided, they had intended to give rest to multiple starters in their final regular-season game against the Rams. Verrett, who had only played in one game this year and had been on the field for just five snaps, would have had a chance to receive more playing time against Los Angeles. This would have provided the opportunity for the team to give their experienced player some game time and potentially have him contribute in the 49ers’ postseason journey.
Verrett sustained the injury during practice while attempting to catch a pass and landing on his shoulder. According to head coach Kyle Shanahan, Verrett is expected to undergo a rehabilitation period lasting approximately four to six months. In the event that he wishes to continue playing at the age of 33 and secures a new team, this timeframe would provide him with some leeway to make a comeback for the 2024 NFL season.
Except for Ambry Thomas, who is listed on the injury report due to a hand injury, no other cornerbacks will be sitting out the whole game this weekend. The original plan was for the starting cornerbacks to be benched after a series or two, but with Verrett no longer an option, they may be required to play longer than initially anticipated.
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