Assistant coach Chris Foerster leads 49ers practice as Kyle Shanahan recovers

San Francisco 49ers assistant head coach Chris Foerster ran the team's first training-camp practice on Sunday as head coach Kyle Shanahan recuperates from a concussion and other injuries sustained in a July 14 car accident. General manager John Lynch, who addressed the situation at a news conference on Saturday, expressed mild skepticism about Foerster's ability to handle the team's breakdown, prompting Foerster to respond with enthusiasm about his role.

With Shanahan limited to the sidelines, Foerster assumed several head-coaching duties, while coordinators Raheem Morris (defense), Klay Kubiak (offense) and Brant Boyer (special teams) also shared responsibilities. Foerster altered the usual team meeting format, dividing players into offensive and defensive groups led by Kubiak and Morris, respectively. He said Shanahan advised him to make decisions as he sees fit and delegate tasks he prefers not to handle.

Veteran players expressed support for the interim arrangement. Left tackle Trent Williams, who has known Foerster since their time together in Washington in 2010, praised his longtime colleague, while linebacker Fred Warner said the coaching staff and veteran leaders would keep the organization running smoothly until Shanahan returns to full strength.

Shanahan observed part of the practice, joining the field for about 30 minutes before returning to the locker room. Warner noted Shanahan's continued involvement despite his limited role.

Foerster acknowledged that his current responsibilities focus on day-to-day tasks such as media duties rather than major strategic changes. He said he is "fired up" about the opportunity to help the team and serve the leadership.

The 49ers expect Shanahan to return soon, after which Foerster will revert to his assistant role.