49ers-Colts injury report: Special teams absences will be something to watch

The San Francisco 49ers released their final injury report, and there are a couple particularly notable injuries. We know that Reuben Foster and Eric Reid will not play, and Marquise Goodwin is questionable but likely to play. The notable injuries I am mentioning though are to linebacker Dekoda Watson and defensive back Adrian Colbert.

Neither is a starter, but both play extensive snaps on special teams. The 49ers special teams has been playing pretty great football for the most part. Robbie Gould missed an extra point against the Los Angeles Rams, but otherwise, all phases of special teams have been clicking. Pro Football Focus ranks them No. 1 overall in their algorithm, while Football Outsiders ranks them No. 2 overall.

Losing Watson and Colbert does not mean things will immediately go south, but it does mean the units will see some changes to their make-up. You’ve got new players meaning a change in chemistry and knowing someone has their respective role covered. It could be fine, or it could result in some breakdowns. FO ranks the Colts No. 1 in their punt coverage, but worse than average in all other phases. The 49ers chances of springing a road upset will depend in part on winning in the third phase of the game.

49ers injury report

Out: S Adrian Colbert (hamstring), LB Reuben Foster (ankle), S Eric Reid (knee), LB Dekoda Watson (groin)

Questionable: WR Marquise Goodwin (concussion)