NFL's Talanoa Hufanga Out for the Game

49ers Safety Inactive Due to Knee Injury

San Francisco 49ers All-Pro safety Talanoa Hufanga has been ruled inactive for the team's Week 1 matchup against the New York Jets due to a knee injury. Hufanga suffered the injury during the 49ers' preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings on August 20 and has been limited in practice ever since.

Hufanga's absence is a significant blow to the 49ers' defense, as he is one of the team's best young players. The 22-year-old safety had a breakout season in 2021, recording 6 interceptions and 104 tackles in 15 games.

With Hufanga out, the 49ers will likely start Hassan Ridgeway at safety alongside Jimmie Ward. Ridgeway is a versatile defender who can play either safety or linebacker, and he has started 12 games for the 49ers in his career.