San Francisco 49ers starting defensive tackle Alfred Collins suffered a torn patellar tendon during Tuesday's practice in Melbourne, Australia, an injury that will sideline him for the entire 2026 season. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury Wednesday, stating Collins will require surgery and be placed on injured reserve. The loss comes shortly after defensive end Sam Okuayinonu was placed on injured reserve with a broken foot requiring weekend surgery.

Collins, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, played 16 games as a rookie in 2025, recording 17 tackles, a sack, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. He was a key contributor in San Francisco's Week 5 win over the Los Angeles Rams, forcing and recovering a fumble at the 1-yard line. With Collins out, the 49ers will rely on C.

J. West and rookie Gracen Halton as healthy options to start alongside Osa Odighizuwa in Thursday's season opener against the Rams. Undrafted rookie James Thompson Jr. remains questionable due to a hamstring issue, while practice squad players Sebastian Valdez and Kevin Givens are available for elevation.

Shanahan also noted the team aims to play Nick Bosa (right ACL) and George Kittle (right Achilles) in the opener, though they will be managed carefully.