SANTA CLARA — The San Francisco 49ers began their training camp under unusual circumstances this week as head coach Kyle Shanahan continues his recovery from a severe concussion sustained in a car accident on July 14. For the first two days of practice, the team has adjusted to operating without Shanahan’s direct leadership on the field.

Fifth-year quarterback Brock Purdy acknowledged that Shanahan’s absence has been noticeable. Normally the driving force behind team meetings and strategic discussions, Shanahan has remained on the sidelines, observing practice from a distance alongside general manager John Lynch but refraining from active coaching duties. Shanahan’s concussion, along with multiple other injuries from the crash, has led the team to withhold a definitive timeline for his return, although Lynch indicated they hope Shanahan will be able to coach the season opener in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10.

In Shanahan’s stead, offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak, now in his second year with the team, has taken on more prominent responsibilities, including calling plays during practice and preseason games. Purdy highlighted the difference in hearing Kubiak’s voice on the headset but praised his work in running the offense in these early stages. Along with Kubiak, offensive line coach Chris Foerster has been named acting head coach, supported by defensive coordinator Raheem Morris and special teams coordinator Brant Boyer as the staff manages day-to-day operations.

Purdy, who was selected last in the 2022 NFL Draft and developed under Shanahan’s guidance, said the absence of the head coach’s presence is particularly difficult given their close relationship. Their first direct conversation since the accident came last week when Purdy visited Shanahan during a brief observation of practice. The exchange focused on well-being rather than football, with Purdy expressing his hope for Shanahan’s recovery.

Following the accident, Shanahan’s wife Mandy reached out to a small group of team leaders, including Purdy, to inform them of the situation. The news initially left Purdy and other players, such as tight end George Kittle, in shock. Efforts to spread information across the team have since increased, though some veterans, including captain and left tackle Trent Williams, only learned of the incident upon arriving at camp.

Purdy relayed a sense of relief after receiving texts directly from Shanahan, confirming that while the injuries were serious, the coach’s life was not in danger. Purdy emphasized that the immediate concern was Shanahan’s health, with football matters taking a backseat.

Despite ongoing uncertainty about the length of Shanahan’s absence, the team expressed confidence in the current coaching group’s ability to carry them through the start of the season. Purdy underscored the collective hope for Shanahan’s full recovery and eventual return to lead the 49ers, while recognizing the team’s preparedness to face challenges in the interim.