Alex Smith Has Seperated Shoulder, Out for a Few Weeks

Posted by sf49ers

October 1, 2007 |

The young, franchise QB Alex Smith sustained an injury in yesterday’s game and could return in three weeks. In the meanwhile, backup QB Trent Dilfer will assume the starter position, hopefully the former Super Bowl winner can lead the 49ers to more wins. Here is the full article:

Coach Mike Nolan said today that Alex Smith’s right shoulder separation won’t require surgery and the 49ers’ quarterback could return as early as Oct. 21 against the New York Giants. An MRI revealed that Smith suffered a third-degree separation of his passing shoulder Sunday when he was sacked and driven to the turf by 308-pound defensive tackle Rocky Bernard during the opening offensive series in a 23-3 loss.

Nolan said doctors assign six grades of varying severity in categorizing a shoulder separation and Smith’s was in the mid-range. He added that Smith’s possible return for the Giants game was a best-case scenario.

“It’s a potential,” Nolan said. “I know that’s what Alex is saying.”

Nolan said team doctors might be able to get a better fix on how long Smith will be sidelined by Thursday, when the swelling in his shoulder is expected to dissipate.

With Smith ruled out for Sunday’s game against Baltimore, Trent Dilfer will make his first start as a 49er. He finished the Seattle game in place of the injured Smith, completing 12 of 33 throws for 128 yards. He was intercepted twice and sacked five times as part of a ragged offensive effort by the 49ers.

“I would expect him to be better,” Nolan said. “I would like to think we’re going to be better as a team.”

The 49ers have a bye Oct. 14 before resuming play the following week at New York.

Nolan said the 49ers will consider making some roster moves to cover themselves because of the injuries to Smith and tight ends Vernon Davis (knee) and Billy Bajema (ankle).

Source: San Jose Mercury News