49ers GM Dismisses Electrical Substation Injury Theory

John Lynch says independent analysis found no issues at team's facilities

Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:05pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a football field or training facility, using the 49ers' team colors to conceptually represent the organization's investigation into potential environmental factors behind player injuries.An abstract, deconstructed view of the 49ers' facilities examines the team's efforts to address player safety concerns.Phoenix Today

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch has shut down the buzz around a theory that an electrical substation near Levi's Stadium could be the cause of the team's recent spate of player injuries. Lynch said the organization brought in a scientist to investigate, and the findings determined the team's facilities are safe and the electromagnetic environment is normal for a workplace.

Why it matters

The 49ers have dealt with a high number of player injuries in recent seasons, leading to speculation about potential environmental factors. Addressing these concerns head-on helps provide clarity and reassurance for the team, its players, and the fanbase.

The details

The substation theory first emerged on social media during the 2025 season, even though the 49ers have played at Levi's Stadium since 2014 and used the nearby practice facility since 1989. 49ers star George Kittle acknowledged the rumors but wanted a definitive answer. Lynch said the team brought in a scientist who determined the players and staff are exposed to an electromagnetic environment similar to a typical gym or workplace, and there are no safety issues.

  • The substation theory emerged on social media during the 2025 NFL season.
  • On March 26, 2026, 49ers GM John Lynch addressed the theory at the NFL owners' meeting in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

John Lynch

The general manager of the San Francisco 49ers who dismissed the electrical substation injury theory.

George Kittle

A star player for the San Francisco 49ers who acknowledged the substation rumors but wanted a definitive answer.

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What they’re saying

“It basically was a big nothing burger. We're in a safe place of work. ... It's a normal place of work. It's a normal gym. We are safe, we're healthy, and we feel really good about that.”

— John Lynch, General Manager, San Francisco 49ers

“That was important to us, not just to turn a blind eye, but to look into it because it's our players' wellness. It's not only our players' wellness, it's coaches, it's staff, all that. And it's encouraging.”

— John Lynch, General Manager, San Francisco 49ers

What’s next

The 49ers will continue to investigate ways to reduce player injuries as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The 49ers' proactive approach to addressing the electrical substation theory, including bringing in an independent expert, demonstrates the team's commitment to player safety and transparency. This should help quell speculation and allow the focus to remain on improving the team's injury prevention and management strategies.