49ers Hire Scientist to Investigate Electrical Substation Conspiracy Theory

Independent study finds no evidence that nearby substation is causing team's high injury rates

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:07pm by Ben Kaplan

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in muted colors, representing the analytical, technical nature of the investigation into the 49ers' injury issues.An independent investigation into the 49ers' injury woes finds no evidence of an electrical conspiracy, but the team's ongoing health challenges remain a mystery.San Francisco Today

The San Francisco 49ers hired an independent scientist with over 45 years of experience studying electromagnetic fields to investigate claims that a nearby electrical substation was responsible for the team's high injury rates. After conducting extensive testing, the scientist found that the substation's electromagnetic output was 400 times below the threshold considered unsafe, debunking the conspiracy theory.

Why it matters

The 49ers have been one of the most injured teams in the NFL in recent years, leading to growing speculation and concern among players, coaches, and fans. Determining the cause of these injuries is crucial for the team's long-term success and the health and safety of its players.

The details

In January 2026, self-described scientist and EMF researcher Peter Cowan proposed a theory that the 49ers' high injury rates could be explained by the team's practice facility and stadium being located next to a large electrical substation. Cowan claimed that low-frequency electromagnetic fields from the substation were degrading the players' collagen and causing soft-tissue damage. The theory gained traction, with some players even telling their agents they didn't want to play for the 49ers. To address these concerns, the team hired an independent scientist with extensive experience in electromagnetic field research to thoroughly investigate the substation. Using lab-grade equipment, the scientist found that the substation's electromagnetic output was 400 times below the level considered unsafe for a work environment.

  • In January 2026, Peter Cowan shared his theory about the electrical substation causing the 49ers' injuries.
  • In March 2026, the 49ers hired an independent scientist to investigate the substation.

The players

Peter Cowan

A self-described scientist and EMF (electromagnetic field) researcher who proposed the theory that the nearby electrical substation was causing the 49ers' high injury rates.

John Lynch

The general manager of the San Francisco 49ers, who hired an independent scientist to investigate the electrical substation conspiracy theory.

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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

What’s next

With the electrical substation theory debunked, the 49ers and their fans will continue to search for answers as to why the team has been plagued by injuries in recent years.

The takeaway

While the 49ers have put the electrical substation conspiracy theory to rest, the team's ongoing struggle with injuries remains a significant concern. This case highlights the importance of thoroughly investigating claims and relying on scientific evidence, rather than speculation, when it comes to player health and safety.