49ers center Eric Heitmann is expected to miss the entire 2011 season after undergoing neck surgery recently according to Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com. Heitmann started 114 games since getting drafted in 2002.
This would be the second straight missed season for Heitmann, who broke his leg last training camp and then struggled with neck pain. Heitmann underwent surgery for a ruptured disk four weeks ago.
Heitmann is under contract for 2011 and his doctor says he wants to play again once he’s healthy. Heitmann faces roughly a six month recovery.
We mentioned previously the 49ers needed to find a starting center, and this news only increases that need.
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I’m sure PFT has covered it, but with the lock-out, would his 49ers insurance cover this? Sure hope so.
The 49ers drafted their future starting center – Daniel Kilgore from Appalachian State.
The good news is that Baas who was tagged to be Heitmanns replacement anyway has already made it clear he wants to return to the team. So although this is really unfortunate for Heitmann who is a really good center it really isn’t that big of a hit for the team.
Cardinal fans all say ‘Toooo Bad’
best of wishes for a speedy recovery………& luckily at the current pace he wont miss anything.
What neck?
Did he have it shortened, lengthened, or just remove unsightly fat? Look like you need a backhoe and drilling rig to get into that neck.
this is unfortunate, he was a solid player for us for years. His presence was missed last year. I don’t know if he’ll be able to be the same after missing two straight years…
I hate to say it, but maybe he needs to think about just hanging it up before he messes his body up for the rest of his life.
What season?
They were thrilled with the play of David Baas last season at center.
Why can’t my Niners catch some kinda break for crying out loud! Why? Why? Why?
time2speakup says:
Why can’t my Niners catch some kinda break for crying out loud! Why? Why? Why?
You ask why the Niners can’t catch a break? Really? How about that 1980 thru 1995 break. Montana, Young, Rice, Craig, Haley, Lott…… the list goes on and on. Being a Rams fan I have no sympathy for any Niners’ fans. Eric Heitmann, yes I have a ton of sympathy for. He even looks like Ogre from Revenge of the Nerds, now that is awesome!