It was already known that Trent Williams will not play again in 2024, but the San Francisco 49ers made it official on Thursday while making a signing that could have a longer-term influence on their fortunes.

The 49ers placed Williams on injured reserve and signed Matt Hennessy to a two-year contract off the Atlanta Falcons' practice squad.

Williams has not played since the Week 11 loss to the Seattle Seahawks because of an ankle injury.

A third-round pick of the Falcons in 2020, Hennessy will give the 49ers interior offensive line depth that has been sorely lacking this season.

Hennessy can play both center and guard but has not seen substantial playing time since starting all 17 games at center for the Falcons in 2021.

Starting 49ers center Jake Brendel has come in for widespread criticism this season, and Hennessey can at least provide some additional competition if San Francisco decides against trying to replace Brendel.

In addition to signing Hennessy, who will likely be active this week with the 49er offensive line decimated by injuries as San Francisco approaches the end of a hugely disappointing season, the Niners have also signed Sebastian Gutierrez to the practice squad.

Gutierrez was released from the practice squad last week, but now returns to offer some extra depth for a 49er team down both Williams and Jaylon Moore at left tackle.

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It would make sense for them to focus on this area.