San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Sam Okuayinonu was ruled out Friday for the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia.
Okuayinonu did not accompany the team on its flight to Australia for next Thursday’s contest as he continues to work his way back from a foot injury.
“He’s a barnyard bully,” 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris said of Okuayinonu earlier this week. “He can do whatever you want him to do. … He can play at the line of scrimmage, plays with great strength, is able to go out there and shed blocks, be able to cause havoc. His ability to turn and run and get to the ball.”
Okuayinonu, 28, recorded 39 tackles and three sacks in 15 games (12 starts) last season.
He has 85 tackles and 6 1/2 sacks in 37 career games (15 starts) with the Tennessee Titans and 49ers.