One of the leading reasons 49ers rookie linebacker Reuben Foster slipped to the 31st pick in the NFL draft — after being widely considered a top-10 talent — was his injured shoulder.

After Foster had surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff, teams throughout the league were concerned about his long-term prognosis as he begins his NFL career.

The 49ers are not one of those teams, while others throughout the league were worried a second surgery would be required that may jeopardize his rookie season, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Despite surgery on his right rotator cuff, Foster’s right shoulder was worrisome enough that some teams did not consider drafting him. “The surgery didn’t take,” said one well-placed source with knowledge of the injury.

Foster said during his San Francisco introduction that he plans on being ready for training camp and he feels good enough to go during rookie minicamp this week and OTAs next month — although the team will likely hold him out. Foster denied a report from USA TODAY Sports that said he would require a second operation.

“That’s not accurate at all. I’m fine. I’m on schedule,” Foster said.

More from ESPN’s report:

Another source predicted that Foster would not make it through his rookie season and that the linebacker’s shoulder could give out on any hit. The 49ers’ doctors, however, are comfortable with the condition of Foster’s shoulder, and hopeful it will hold up, though they understand there could be a risk, according to sources.

The 49ers have already indicated their willingness to take a long-term approach to reconstructing the team after going 7-25 the last two seasons. Foster will be an integral piece, and San Francisco would be wise to explore the idea of a second surgery rather than risking permanent damage that would hinder his career over the long run.

It might be a bitter pill to swallow to sideline Foster for some, if not all, his rookie season. But playing it safe may be the smart move to maximize Foster’s career.