Kyle Shanahan returned to the San Francisco 49ers’ practice field for a second consecutive day Monday, although watching from a safe distance proved harder than expected.

David Lombardi reported that Shanahan again joined general manager John Lynch in center field for the closing stretch of practice. Their quiet observation post suddenly became part of the action when two deep balls came sailing their way, forcing both men to scatter.

The unexpected mobility test served as another encouraging sign in Shanahan’s recovery from the serious injuries he suffered in a July 14 car crash.

Shanahan is participating on a limited basis while recovering from a severe concussion, broken ribs, a broken nose, a broken hand and facial injuries. He watched roughly 30 minutes of Sunday’s practice, including much of the 11-on-11 work, before leaving early.

Shanahan arrived after the portion of practice open to cameras and wore sunglasses with a soft cast on his left hand. The Athletic’s Matt Barrows noted that the swelling in Shanahan’s face appeared to have subsided.

Assistant head coach and offensive line coach Chris Foerster continues to handle the head-coaching responsibilities. Reporters described Foerster as energized while directing his first full practice in the temporary role, with Shanahan observing nearby.

Fred Warner was not surprised to see his coach return so quickly.

“I know he can’t stay away,” Warner said. “That guy’s obsessed with ball, so of course he’s going to be around.”

There is no announced timetable for Shanahan to resume full duties, though he is expected to be ready for San Francisco’s Sept. 10 opener against the Rams in Melbourne.

For now, simply being back at practice represents progress—even when the occasional deep ball forces him to prove he can still move.