The San Francisco 49ers have lost defensive tackle Alfred Collins for the remainder of the 2026 season. The former second-round pick out of Texas suffered a torn patellar tendon just days before the team's season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia on September 10.
Collins was expected to play a significant role in his second year with the franchise. In his rookie campaign during 2025, he recorded 17 tackles, one sack, and two forced fumbles. His absence creates a gap in the defensive front that the coaching staff must address immediately.
This injury increases the pressure on Mykel Williams, a former first-round pick from Georgia, to return to action. Williams is currently on the physically unable to perform list after suffering a torn ACL last season. He will miss the first four games of the 2026 schedule.
In his rookie year, Williams contributed 20 tackles and one sack. Head coach Kyle Shanahan aims to see increased production from Williams in his second season. The team faces the challenge of balancing snap limitations to protect his health with providing enough playing time for him to develop as a defensive force.
