The 49ers announced major injury news on Tuesday, as linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong is headed for injured reserve with a pectoral injury sustained during Sunday’s loss to the Carolina Panthers.
The 49ers are placing inside linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong on the IR. He was having a strong start to the season
— Kevin Jones (@Mr_KevinJones) September 20, 2016
Armstrong, 27, had eight tackles and an interception in two games this season after joining the 49ers off waivers last November. He originally signed with the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent out of Miami on April 27, 2013.
A converted safety, Armstrong was having a strong start to the season than anticipated. He played 27 snaps before going down with the pectoral injury against the Panthers.
Defensive coordinator Jim O’Neil said Michael Wilhoite and Gerald Hodges are expected to assume Armstrong’s snaps in a platoon fashion. The team also has special teamer Nick Bellore at inside linebacker.
The 49ers have yet to announce the corresponding move, but it could be an internal promotion from the practice squad. O’Neil said on Tuesday he feels fine with the inside linebackers in the room, so elevating Marcus Rush (and his six sack preseason performance) seems like a logical move for GM Trent Baalke to make.
