After an NFL suspension, Niners star linebacker Reuben Foster is activated.
The suspension followed the resolution of a misdemeanor narcotics charge and firearms possession earlier this year.
Kyle Shanahan, the head coach, expressed confidence that Foster will be prepared for Sunday’s game against the unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs.
According to Shanahan, “He seems great mentally,” he told reporters on Wednesday. “Despite his two-week absence, I have a good feeling about his physical condition. However, today on the field, we’ll witness it.”
In the first two games of the season, according to the 49ers head coach, the defense has been lacking an impact player such as Foster.
“Reuben’s one of our best players,” he stated. He does a great job at the post, in my opinion. Everyone is aware of his skill as a tackler. However, he excels in covering as well. She is capable of blitzing the QB. He is quite versatile. Men are drawn to him just because of his leadership qualities and general presence. He is a tremendous pleasure to have around.”
Following the league’s decision, Foster acknowledged the ban in writing and thanked 49er supporters for their support.
“I accept the League’s decision and am sorry that my mistakes have hurt my team,” he stated in a letter. As part of my obligation to the 49ers, our supporters, and the community, I’m determined to grow from this experience and make wiser decisions going forward. I am humbled by the support I have received over the past five months and do not take it for granted.”
Foster was accused with possessing marijuana in the second degree in Alabama in January. Eventually, once he finished the first-time offender diversion course, the case was dropped.
Following an incident in February in California, he was charged with more serious offenses. After being accused of beating up his ex-girlfriend, he was first charged in April with charges related to domestic violence, making criminal threats, and possessing weapons.
The ex-girlfriend denied the accusations, and the judge discovered no additional evidence to back up the claims, therefore she decided there was no probable cause for the first two offenses. Foster entered a plea of not guilty to the amended firearms allegation in June, after it was downgraded to a misdemeanor.
In addition to $235 in fines, he was ordered to perform 232 hours of community service and two years on probation. Gun ownership will not be permitted for the duration of his probation.
Foster was a potential top 10 choice last year, but concerns about his health and character forced the 49ers to select him 31st overall.
In his breakout rookie campaign, he started nine games, with one pass defensed and 72 tackles, good for second on the team. With 30 tackles in three starts, he was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for the month of November.
