The Big Game is finally here as we are on the cusp of Super Bowl LIV. The matchup between the 49ers and Chiefs is intriguing as it will be a battle between the irresistible force and the immoveable object. Both teams are relatively healthy and at full strength, so we should see the best of both of them. Of course, there are some players who are dealing with lingering injuries that could affect how much they play on Sunday, but there are no expected absences that will significantly impact either side. This is good news for fantasy players who are in postseason leagues or playing DFS. So without any further adieu, let’s take a look at some of the walking wounded in the fantasy football emergency room.
George Kittle (TE-SF)
Football players are inherently tough people playing through injuries and pain. However, some players are even tougher than that. George Kittle is one of them. He participated on a podcast earlier this week and revealed that he has had a torn labrum in his right shoulder for the past couple years. He indicated that he suffered the injury during a preseason game before the 2018 season and has continued to play through it. He has actively avoided getting surgery because he did not want to miss any practice time. While this is admirable, it would behoove Kittle and the 49ers for him to undergo an operation to repair the labrum in order to prolong his career. For purposes of the Super Bowl, he will absolutely be on the field and play through whatever pain he might be in. The 49ers ran all over Green Bay in the NFC Championship, so there was not much need for an aerial attack as Kittle was targeted only once in the and caught that pass for 19 yards. He is an exceptional blocking tight end so that may end up being his greatest value to the team in the Big Game.
Tevin Coleman (RB-SF)
San Francisco running back Tevin Coleman was carted off the field during the NFC Championship Game a couple weeks ago after suffering a shoulder injury. His absence was not felt in the least as Raheem Mostert took over and single-handedly dismantled the Packers defense. However, Coleman did have a huge game against the Vikings in the NFC Divisional Round running for 105 yards and two touchdowns. He has practiced in a limited capacity the past couple days which bodes well for his chances of playing in the Super Bowl. Coleman has explosive speed and is capable of breaking a big play any time he gets the ball. The 49ers should be able to run the ball effectively against the Chiefs, but Coleman’s presence would obviously give them a lot more versatility, and allow Mostert to get some rest.
Dee Ford (DL-SF)
The 49ers defense was stellar all season thanks in large part to their elite pass rush from the defensive line. Dee Ford played a big role up front amassing six and a half sacks in only 11 games. He was banged up most of the season and has admitted that he is less than 100% right now. He has been hobbled by various leg injuries including tendinitis in his knee and hamstring issues. There is no doubt he will be on the field for the Super Bowl and placed with the unenviable task of trying to disrupt Patrick Mahomes aerial attack.
LeSean McCoy (RB-KC)
Veteran running back LeSean McCoy was declared inactive for the AFC Championship Game against Tennessee just a week after playing only one snap in the Divisional Round. McCoy has been banged up all season, playing in 13 games and rushing for 465 yards and four touchdowns along with 28 catches for 181 yards and one touchdown. The Chiefs seem inclined to rely heavily on Damien Williams now that he is healthy, so it appears likely that McCoy may not be active for the Super Bowl.