NFC Notes: 49ers, Cardinals, Rams, Seahawks

49ers

• The 49ers announced before Sunday’s game that OL coach John Benton tested positive for COVID-19 and is quarantining.

Cardinals

• Cardinals HC Kliff Kingsbury said he was excited for K Mike Nugent to get the opportunity on Sunday. (Darren Urban)
• Kingsbury said they have to see how Zane Gonzalez‘s back is doing before figuring out their kicking situation.

Rams

Rams’ HC Sean McVay was not ready to name rookie RB Cam Akers the starting running back after his strong performance on Thursday night and still mentioned Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson when talking to the media after the game.

“I think you still want to be able to utilize those guys,” McVay said, via Pro Football Talk. “I think Malcolm [Brown] and Darrell [Henderson] are both very valuable parts of what we do. It was Cam’s night last night. I do think Cam is capable of that, but as far as how we move forward, I think what’s important for us is capitalizing on all the different playmakers that we do have. Certainly, Cam did a great job last night, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t see opportunities for Darrell and Malcolm moving forward because both of those players have done a lot of really good things that have been helpful in our success as a team. So, [I’m] very pleased. I think we know Cam is capable of that, but to say that we would commit to that approach, I don’t necessarily think that’s the exact thing that we’re thinking. I think we’re really pleased with Cam and not surprised though.”

Seahawks

• Seahawks HC Pete Carroll said that DE Carlos Dunlap “needed another week” on his foot, but indicated he can return soon. (Bob Condotta)
• Carroll said of OT Brandon Shell‘s ankle: “He tweaked it a couple times and then it was one too many times. It was really, really studly him just to go out and play. … he’s got a smile on his face today but he’s gonna be pretty sore tomorrow.” Said it will be “touch-and-go week.” (Curtis Crabtree)