:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71680042/1445033377.0.jpg)
Post-game update: 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan told the media on Sunday after the game that Mitchell likely sprained his MCL. Mitchell suffered a sprained MCL in Week 1, but Shanahan said this one is his other knee and does not seem as serious. It might preclude an injured reserve placement, but he’ll likely miss some time.
UPDATE: The 49ers have downgraded Elijah Mitchell to out late in the third quarter.
San Francisco 49ers running back Elijah Mitchell has exited Sunday’s contest with a knee injury and is questionable to return to the game. The second-year tailback entered the blue medical tent on the sidelines and was seen sitting on the bench with teammates patting his helmet.
This is tough break for the 49ers and Mitchell, who had just come back from a knee injury two weeks ago. He was sidelined for seven games before making his anticipated return against the Chargers in Week 10. There were concerns about his usage with the team acquiring All-Pro Christian McCaffrey during his absence, but he immediately put that to bed when taking 18 carries for 89 yards in his first game back.
Prior to exiting today’s contest, he had seven carries for 35 yards and we’ll see if he’s able to return. The 49ers hold a two-score lead and may opt to rest him if they’re able to extend it.