49ers Activate Malik Mustapha for Potential Week 6 Return After ACL Surgery

The San Francisco 49ers have officially opened the practice window for safety Malik Mustapha, who is recovering from ACL graft reattachment surgery performed in January. Mustapha, a fourth-round pick in 2024 who started 12 games as a rookie, can be activated to the 53-man roster within the next 21 days and could potentially return as early as Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His return is expected to impact the current starting lineup, particularly rookie Marques Sigle, who has struggled in coverage despite being solid against the run. Veteran Jason Pinnock, who has been strong in pass rushing and trusted by coach Robert Saleh, is likely to retain his role. Meanwhile, other key players such as tight end George Kittle and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk remain sidelined with injuries, with Kittle unlikely to return soon and Aiyuk still undergoing physical therapy after a previous ACL tear. The 49ers are managing multiple injury recoveries as they aim to strengthen their defense and overall roster for the season.