Niners' Omenihu expected to play in NFC Championship despite arrest

[January 26, 2023] (Reuters) - San Francisco 49ers defensive end Charles Omenihu is expected to be available for Sunday's NFC Championship game, the team said on Wednesday, after he was arrested this week on suspicion of domestic violence.  

Houston Texans defensive end Charles Omenihu (94) reacts before a play during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

San Jose police took Omenihu into custody on Monday after his girlfriend called authorities to say he had pushed her to the ground during an argument. He later posted bail.

Omenihu was not expected to take a full part in practice on Wednesday due to an injury.

"We're letting the legal process take care of itself so if he's healthy he'll play this week," said head coach Kyle Shanahan.

The 49ers face the Philadelphia Eagles on the road in their final hurdle to reach the Super Bowl.

"We feel very good letting the legal process take care of itself and don't feel we should kick him off the team at this time," said Shanahan.

(Reporting by Amy Tennery in New York, editing by Ed Osmond)

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