Following the 2017 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers were touted by many as having selected a promising group of young talent.

Among those was former Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster, who was taken with the 31st overall pick by the Niners. In the season opener on Sunday afternoon against the Carolina Panthers, Foster experienced a setback as he suffered what has been diagnosed as a high ankle sprain that could cost him some time on the field.

The loss of Foster could have a huge impact defensively for San Francisco as he was anticipated to fulfill a significant role. That said, this is a major sigh of relief from the organization as it was initially believed that he had suffered a broken leg. The 23-year-old will instead be sidelined for next several weeks of the season.

The 49ers may turn to veteran linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong to pick up the starting spot in Foster's absence. Armstrong finished the season opener tied for second on the team with six tackles but he also missed three tackles, including the receiving touchdown by Panthers running back Jonathan Stewart.

With further examination on the injury expected, a more clear timetable for his return will be announced in the coming days.