49ers defensive end Keon White was shot in the ankle during an incident in San Francisco early Monday morning, according to a statement from the team. Thankfully, his injuries are not life-threatening, and he was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The San Francisco Police Department reported that they responded to a shooting around 4:06 a.m. at a business on Mission Street. Upon arrival, they found White with a gunshot wound. The preliminary investigation noted an altercation between two groups led to the shooting, with an unknown suspect firing the shot. More details are expected as the investigation continues.
The 49ers shared that White is undergoing surgery. They promise to provide updates on his condition as they become available. Representatives for White have yet to comment on the matter.
Interestingly, this shooting took place just after the Seattle Seahawks triumphed over the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl at Levi’s Stadium, which is near where White has been playing. White had previously sported Patriots gear on social media, having played five games for them before being traded to the 49ers. The trade included a sixth-round draft pick for White and a seventh-round pick.
In this current season, White has been relatively productive, with six QB hits, 1.5 sacks, and 12 total tackles in nine games with the 49ers, including two playoff games where he recorded one sack and four tackles for loss.
It’s worth noting that another 49ers player, Ricky Pearsall, had a similar experience last August when he was shot in the chest during a robbery attempt. He missed the first several games of his rookie year but eventually made a full recovery.
