Hufanga’s return forms strong duo alongside 49ers rookie Mustapha

SANTA CLARA — Talanoa Hufanga's return in the 49ers' 38-18 win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday at Levi's Stadium lifted the team emotionally, while also elevating San Francisco's play on the field. Coach Kyle Shanahan was excited to see the veteran safety in the game after being sidelined with a wrist injury following his return from an ACL injury suffered during the 2023 NFL season. Hufanga is known for his energetic spirit, and the head coach could feel the difference. "I was just pumped to get Huf out there in uniform," Shanahan said after the game. "We weren't sure how it was going to go this week with him being back for practice, and we thought he looked real good. Then when he told me he had the confidence to play on Friday, I was pumped to start him." Hufanga was on the field for much of the game starting along side of rookie Malik Mustapha. The two forged a friendship when the veteran reached out the rookie upon being selected by San Francisco No. 124 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. While Sunday was the first time the two safeties have played in an actual game together, Hufanga and Mustapha have spent enough time with each other to form a solid foundation of trust. "I...