Kyle Shanahan to coach 49ers' opener after crash

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan will return to the sideline for the team’s first preseason game on Thursday night, just weeks after a serious car crash left him with multiple injuries.

Shanahan was involved in a July 14 crash that resulted in a concussion, broken ribs, a broken nose, a broken hand and over 40 stitches to close a deep cut over his eye. The 44-year-old coach has spent the summer rehabbing and says he’s now nearly back to full health. He has attended every practice this month and noted that issues like loud stadium noise, which initially aggravated his symptoms, are no longer a problem.

The 49ers open the preseason Thursday against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Shanahan’s presence should steady a team still adjusting to life without star quarterback Brock Purdy, who is recovering from an elbow injury. Shanahan has already guided the team through two weeks of camp, but his absence from the first two preseason games raised concerns about his readiness and the team’s stability.

His return sends a clear message about his recovery and commitment to the franchise. The 49ers, coming off a Super Bowl run, need Shanahan fully focused as they finalize their roster ahead of the regular season. With Purdy likely sidelined into September, Shanahan’s leadership in these exhibition games could prove critical in determining how quickly the team builds chemistry and confidence.