Practice Squad Gems Shine in 49ers Playoff Win

In a dramatic wild-card playoff victory against the Philadelphia Eagles, linebackers Eric Kendricks and Garret Wallow emerged as unexpected heroes for the San Francisco 49ers. Both players, who were practice squad members or acquired late in the season, delivered standout performances, demonstrating the team's resilience amid numerous injuries. Their contributions were crucial in securing the 23-19 win, setting up a divisional round matchup with Seattle.

Kendricks, who was waiting for the right opportunity at home after undergoing shoulder surgery in late January 2025, was called by the 49ers in November. He recorded 10 tackles, including two for loss, and notably broke up a fourth-down pass in the final minute that clinched the victory. Wallow, picked up by San Francisco off waivers in December, made 11 tackles and had a pass defense in his first start in three years.

Coach Kyle Shanahan praised their high level of play, noting they "played at a high level." Kendricks, in particular, meticulously prepared for his opportunity, maintaining a strict workout routine. Promoted from the practice squad to the active roster for the final three games and then to the 53-man roster after an injury, he has seamlessly stepped into the middle linebacker role, guided by assistant coach K.J. Wright, and is now two wins away from his first Super Bowl.