MCG transforms into fortress for NFL game
San Francisco 49ers star Alfred Collins will miss the entire NFL season after suffering a devastating knee injury at training in Melbourne during the week.
Collins tore his patellar tendon in a session at AAMI Park, just days before the blockbuster clash against the LA Rams at the MCG.
The 24-year-old defensive tackle had been listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice before coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the serious blow.
“That was a big loss, we’ve lost two defensive lineman for the year. After cuts but before the first game, which has been a huge challenge.
“Hurting for Alfred. It happened yesterday right before we started going against each other, it was real unfortunate for him.”
Collins was likely to play extensively as the 49ers’ probable starting nose tackle this season and his absence will test the depth on an already thin unit.
Defensive tackle Gracen Helton and defensive end Romello Height are both limited in practice by ankle injuries, while undrafted rookie defensive tackle James Thompson missed practice Tuesday with a hamstring injury.
It seems likely the 49ers will call up one of their practice squad defensive tackles — Sebastian Valdez or Kevin Givens — for the inaugural Australia game.
Collins, a second-round pick in 2025, played 16 games last season and totaled 17 tackles, one sack, four quarterback hits, an interception, two passes defensed and two forced fumbles.
The 49ers have spent the week in Melbourne as they prepare for Thursday’s season opener against the Rams.
NFL: Melbourne
San Francisco 49ers v Los Angeles Rams
Friday, 11 September, 8.00am WST live and free on Seven and 7plus Sport
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