The San Francisco 49ers are hoping for a rebound season after a disappointing 6-10 campaign and last-place finish in the NFC West.
As the team prepares for a rigorous offseason leading up to roster changes before a Week 1 matchup with the division rival Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 7, they'll be down a safety.
On Thursday, head coach Kyle Shannahan announced the team will be without safety Ji'Ayir Brown, possibly until training camp, after undergoing a surgical procedure on his ankle.
Brown was a third-round pick in 2023 out of Penn State and has made 32 appearances with 18 starts over the past two seasons.
The 25-year-old has posted three interceptions, 10 passes defended and 112 total tackles with 48 solo and three for loss.
Brown posted a standout rookie campaign in 2023, filling in for Talanoa Hufanga, but couldn't replicate that last season.
With the return of Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator, Brown needs offseason reps. Saleh wasn't here in 2023 and was not involved in his selection. If anyone needs reps this summer, it's Brown.
San Francisco will still have Malik Mustapha, Richie Grant, Jason Pinnock, Geroge Odum and rookie Marques Sigle available for offseason workouts until Brown returns for training camp.
Shanahan also announced wideout Ricky Pearsall will be held out of OTAs with a hamstring injury.