The San Francisco 49ers are in full-on scouting mode at the NFL Scouting Combine, and let’s just say, the prognosis for defensive end Drake Jackson is not exactly bursting with sunshine and rainbows. John Lynch, the guy steering the ship as president of football operations and general manager, took a moment to share some sobering news about Jackson’s recovery, which is about as clear as mud.

Let’s just say, Lynch isn’t singing the optimistic tune we’d like to hear. He brought up former right tackle Mike McGlinchey’s struggles after suffering a similar quad tendon injury, stating, “That’s been a tough injury. We found that out with McGlinchey; those quad tendon repairs require some serious soul-searching before you commit to it, because it doesn’t just magically disappear”. Spoiler alert: McGlinchey is still coping with lingering pain, and let’s hope Jackson isn’t destined for the same fate.

If you’re keeping track, this injury déjà vu isn’t just a coincidence. Retired center Weston Richburg also dealt with a devastating patellar tendon injury in 2019, ultimately deciding to hang up his cleats because the road to recovery wasn’t worth the risk anymore. Yikes.

Jackson, the 49ers’ second-round pick in 2022, has only seen 23 games worth of action, racking up a total of 514 defensive snaps. His rookie season was a glimmer of hope, seeing him participate in 15 games, with three sacks and a handful of tackles. But, in classic sports fashion, we’re now left holding our breath as Lynch disclosed, “I guess Drake has had, not setbacks, but just trouble from the back end. It’s not been the most encouraging thing”.

Hoping for a rosy outcome, Lynch concluded with a heartfelt, “So we’re crossing our fingers and putting in all the work, as is Drake, that that happens”. In other words, folks, we’re all hoping for a miracle here.

As the draft looms, the 49ers have a wealth of talent to draw from in the defensive tackle and pass rusher categories, aiming to secure both immediate success and a bright future. Fingers crossed that Jackson can be part of that future, but for now, the 49ers are bracing themselves for every eventuality. Keep your hopes high, folks. We’re going to need them.