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Arik Armstead on foot surgery: 'I'm feeling better now'

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Arik Armstead struggled with injuries over the last two seasons, causing concern about the 49ers’ 2015 first-round pick. He missed the eight games in 2016 to have shoulder surgery. Last year, he fractured his hand and missed the final 10 contests.

The 49ers earlier this month decided to pick up Armstead’s fifth-year option for 2019 despite those durability question marks. Additionally, the team made that decision while Armstead was coming off foot surgery unrelated to those previous two injuries.

Armstead went on “The Drive” on KHTK Sports 1140 in his hometown of Sacramento Friday morning and confirmed an NFL Network report about the procedure. He said he plans on being cleared to participate in the offseason program ramping up Monday and training camp later in the summer.

“I’m good. I had minor surgery, a minor cleanup on my foot a couple months ago,” Armstead said. “But I’m feeling better now. We start OTAs and practice on Monday so I’m feeling good.”

Armstead indicated he plans to be on the field when the non-padded practices begin Monday. It will mark the first time the 49ers can begin 11-on-11 drills since the new league year began in March.

Armstead is optimistic about San Francisco’s defense improving this season after being ranked 24th in total defense in 2017. The team improved to seventh in yards allowed during the five-game winning streak to end the year with Jimmy Garoppolo at quarterback.

“I’m excited. It’s going to be a big year for our team,” Armstead said. “We’ve been working out really hard this offseason and actually get to play some football (next week).”

UPDATE: Armstead took to Twitter to say when he had surgery.

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