Malik Mustapha, the San Francisco 49ers' starting safety, is expected to miss the beginning of the upcoming NFL season due to an ACL injury sustained during the team's last game against the Arizona Cardinals. An MRI revealed that a graft from a previous ACL injury was torn, leading to surgery for repair. Despite initial optimism, Mustapha will likely return midseason.

The 49ers have bolstered their safety position this offseason, adding former Falcons safety Richie Grant and drafting Marques Sigle from Kansas State. Mustapha's strong rookie season included 72 tackles and five pass breakups in 12 starts, showcasing his potential as a key defensive player.