49ers Webzone News and Updates

49ers' Brock Purdy needs to improve in one key area, says QB-coach duo ranking

David Bonilla — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:19:36 PDT

Garrett Podell of CBS Sports ranked the NFL's top 10 quarterback-coach duos heading into the 2026 season, with the San Francisco 49ers' pairing of Brock Purdy and Kyle Shanahan coming in at No. 6.

At the top of the list is the Los Angeles Rams duo of Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay, which edges out Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs. Sam Darnold and Mike Macdonald landed at No. 3, meaning three teams in the top 10 represent the NFC West.

Podell was impressed by the 49ers' success last season despite their six highest-paid players missing a league-leading 64 games. San Francisco still made the playoffs and knocked off the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field before falling to the eventual Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks.

Podell credits Purdy and Shanahan for helping the 49ers navigate the adversity and remain competitive throughout the season.

"Purdy's situational efficiency in Shanahan's scheme reached new heights in 2025 with him completing 58.3% of his third and fourth down pass attempts, the highest rate by any quarterback in the last 35 seasons, per CBS Sports Research," Podell wrote.

However, Podell believes there is one area Purdy must improve if the 49ers are going to enjoy continued success: availability.

"Like the rest of the San Francisco roster, Purdy needs to work on improving his durability," Podell added. "He missed a combined 11 games across the last three seasons, including eight in 2025 with a turf toe injury. Shanahan is a master at maximizing whoever is on the football field, but it would be nice to see him work with a full deck for once. That may be difficult with much of his core on the wrong side of 30."

Purdy is entering his fifth NFL season. The good news is that he enters the 2026 campaign healthy and surrounded by an offense that should give him plenty of opportunities to succeed. However, the 49ers need him to remain on the field if they hope to compete with the Rams and Seahawks in the NFC West.

How 49ers' Mike Evans is inspiring Brock Purdy to play his best football in 2026

David Bonilla — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 08:53:51 PDT

Wide receiver Mike Evans joined the San Francisco 49ers in March, bringing with him an impressive résumé that includes 11 consecutive seasons with more than 1,000 receiving yards.

As Evans enters his 13th NFL season, the veteran wideout is already inspiring his new teammates to play their best football in 2026. That includes quarterback Brock Purdy, who will be slinging passes in Evans' direction this season.

"I think it's been so cool just picking his brain, being around him, getting out on the field and competing with him," Purdy told NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco this week. "And after reps, him coming back and talking and we make adjustments together, and I understand how he's supposed to be running a certain route, and the look that he's seeing and where I need to be better, and then we go back out and get it done."

Evans was recently sidelined with an adductor injury but returned to practice on Wednesday. He is expected to be the 49ers' leading receiver this season, giving Purdy a boundary and red-zone target unlike any he has had during his NFL career.

There are questions about Evans' ability to stay healthy, which is a natural concern given that he turned 33 in August. Evans was also limited to just eight games last season because of injuries, preventing him from recording an NFL-record 12th consecutive 1,000-yard season.

Still, the 49ers are confident Evans can provide significant production in 2026. The veteran receiver will be looking to prove that Father Time has not yet caught up with him.

For Purdy, playing alongside a receiver of Evans' caliber presents an opportunity to take another step forward in his own development.

"I'm extremely excited to play with him this year," Purdy said. "And obviously, just with what he's done in his career, I want to go out and play my best for him, and win games together, and look back at this thing and be like, 'Man, we did something pretty special together.' So, like I said, I'm extremely excited."

If Evans can stay healthy, the 49ers believe the veteran wideout can give Purdy a weapon capable of elevating the entire passing game. And judging by Purdy's comments, the quarterback is already motivated to make the most of the opportunity.

49ers pass rusher doesn't travel with team to Australia

David Bonilla — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 07:47:00 PDT

The San Francisco 49ers could be without a key depth piece along the defensive line when they face the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10.

According to Pro Football Talk, the 49ers announced shortly before their departure that defensive end Sam Okuayinonu would not be making the trip with the team. Okuayinonu is dealing with a foot injury.

Interestingly, the 49ers have listed Okuayinonu as "questionable" for the game, suggesting he could still catch up with the team and play in the Week 1 NFC West showdown.

"Depending on how his foot responds to treatment in the coming days, it's possible that he'll fly to Australia separately," Pro Football Talk's
Michael David Smith wrote.

There is still plenty of time for that to happen. The 49ers are flying to Australia a full week before kickoff, allowing Okuayinonu to join the team later in the week if his foot responds well to treatment. The Rams, meanwhile, are not scheduled to arrive in Australia until a day before kickoff.

Another recovering defensive end, star pass rusher Nick Bosa, traveled with the 49ers. Bosa has been dealing with soreness and tendinitis in his surgically repaired knee after suffering an ACL injury on September 21, 2025. He returned to practice Wednesday and is confident he will suit up for Week 1.

Okuayinonu emerged as a valuable depth piece for the 49ers last season, recording 39 tackles and three sacks in 15 game appearances, including 12 starts. The performance brought his career sack total to 6.5.

"He's a barnyard bully," defensive coordinator Raheem Morris said of Okuayinonu this week. "He can do whatever you want him to do ... He can play at the line of scrimmage, plays with great strength, is able to go out there and shed blocks, be able to cause havoc. His ability to turn and run and get to the ball."

If Okuayinonu is unable to make the trip later this week, the 49ers will have to lean on their other defensive line options against a Rams offense led by quarterback Matthew Stafford.

49ers rookie receiver earns bold 2026 prediction from NFL insider

David Bonilla — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 07:13:07 PDT

When it comes to rookie pass catchers during the 2026 NFL season, ESPN's Dan Graziano believes San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling could outshine them all.

The NFL insider recently shared his bold predictions and potential surprises heading into the 2026 campaign, warning fans and pundits not to be surprised if Stribling leads all rookie receivers in receptions.

Graziano noted that Mike Evans, the 49ers' prized free-agent addition in March, is likely to be the team's leading receiver this season. However, the veteran has dealt with his share of injury setbacks during training camp. Evans most recently worked through an adductor injury but returned to practice Wednesday.

The 49ers have other veterans in their wide receiver room, including Deebo Samuel and Demarcus Robinson. Graziano also acknowledged that head coach Kyle Shanahan has been reluctant to rely heavily on rookie wideouts in the past.

"But all of that said, someone needs to catch the ball in San Francisco, and Stribling has been doing a lot of that in camp and the preseason," Graziano wrote.

In addition to flashing during training camp, Stribling tallied 11 receptions for 109 yards through two preseason appearances, easing concerns that the 49ers may have reached for him with the No. 33 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

"The first pick of the second round of this year's draft, Stribling has a chance to make an impact as a rookie," Graziano wrote. "Left tackle Trent Williams told me he expects big things from Stribling right away -- that he reminds him of former 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings in terms of the variety of routes he can run, but with more speed. Brock Purdy could look Stribling's way early and often, and he could be a high-volume pass catcher."

While many initially expected Stribling to need time to carve out a significant role in Shanahan's offense, the rookie has impressed enough to make fans and teammates believe his contributions could come sooner rather than later.

49ers' John Lynch addresses aging roster ahead of 2026 season

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:52:44 PDT

The San Francisco 49ers have one of the NFL's oldest rosters. That brings plenty of experience, including players who have been through some of the league's most important games. However, it also means the team's veteran core is inching closer to the point when age could begin to affect its performance.

49ers general manager John Lynch joined The TK Show this week and addressed the team's aging roster. He explained why he remains confident that the 49ers have done enough to prepare for the future.

Analysts have criticized the 49ers' recent draft classes, although it is still too early to make any definitive judgments. Lynch acknowledged the importance of hitting on draft picks to ensure the team has talented players ready to step into larger roles as veterans eventually depart.

"You never want to be this middling team where you're an aging team, and then you don't have a plan for the future," Lynch told Tim Kawakami. "Well, in order to have a plan for the future, you better hit on your draft choices. And so, while the household names haven't come from last year's draft, we think, in totality, there were 11 draft choices. Last year, all 11 were here and contributed.

"And I think a lot of those guys, these are important years for them, years two and three. The DT Alfred Collins, the DT C.J. West, other players, WR Jordan Watkins, WR Jacob Cowing, to show that they're a part of this thing going forward."

The 49ers are also hoping second-year players such as defensive lineman Mykel Williams and cornerback Upton Stout can make significant leaps and become more impactful contributors.

"And I believe they have that capacity," Lynch continued. "I believe they have that ability, but they've got to go show it. And so, I think that's the next progression."

Lynch firmly believes the 49ers have a healthy mix of veteran experience and youthful potential, which is typically a strong formula for both immediate and long-term success.

"We do have some outstanding players, but they are aging," Lynch admitted. "And so, you have to prepare for the future, and good organizations do that. And I think we've been able to toe that line that creates a really good situation. Tough decisions always have to be made, but we're in good position."

Lynch credited 49ers ownership for consistently investing in the roster when necessary, and he has confidence in his staff's ability to identify future playmakers.

"The last couple of years, those drafts were critical, and the fact that we've stockpiled players that are contributors," Lynch said. "Now, the next deal, as I alluded to, is: can they take up their game a notch and become impact players, become needle-moving players? Now, you're kind of cooking with gas, and that's our hope."

49ers owner Jed York remains heavily involved despite absence

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:53:00 PDT

San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York was recently arrested in Ohio during a prostitution sting, leaving many wondering what his role with the team might look like moving forward.

49ers general manager John Lynch says York remains heavily involved with the organization, even if he is not physically present with the team. For now, the owner would presumably prefer to stay out of the spotlight.

Lynch joined The TK Show this week and shared that communication with York remains strong despite his legal troubles and the possibility of NFL discipline. Lynch acknowledged that the communication has changed, as York was previously an "in-the-building-almost-every-day type of owner."

The general manager believes York's presence around the facility has been beneficial in the past, but the 49ers must now adapt to his absence.

Fortunately, the current group of decision-makers is entering its 10th season together, which has helped the organization navigate this unexpected transition.

"Okay, if he's not going to be here, Jed, we've got to talk on a regular basis," Lynch told Tim Kawakami. "He knows that, we know that, we've done that. Now, to the regularity that we normally do, because conversations kind of come up organically, no, but it's probably led to a lot more scheduled meetings where, in the past, it was more organic.

"Yesterday morning, head coach Kyle Shanahan and I were on a Zoom with Jed and had a great discussion about a variety of things. And so, that communication is critical, I think, to keep everybody on the same page. And Jed, he's been a great sounding board over the years. He trusts us."

Lynch and the 49ers are well aware that their working relationship with York could be further altered if the NFL imposes discipline. As a result, they are trying to address more of the organization's big-picture discussions earlier than usual.

"Let's have conversations beforehand so that we know exactly where his wishes are," Lynch said. "And you can't do that for everything because issues come up, like the trade deadline. You don't know until you know, and there's so many factors that go into that. But we'll be prepared for everything because we've put in the work, we've put in the communication beforehand."

49ers host DT McKinnley Jackson on visit ahead of Australia trip

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:09:00 PDT

According to the NFL transaction report, the San Francisco 49ers hosted defensive tackle McKinnley Jackson for a visit ahead of the team's trip to Melbourne, Australia.

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Jackson (6-2, 325) out of Texas A&M in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He spent two seasons in Cincinnati before being waived during final roster cuts on August 30.

Jackson appeared in nine games for the Bengals during the 2025 season, recording seven tackles.

Over his two NFL seasons, Jackson appeared in 22 games, including one start. He recorded 22 tackles (six solo), one sack, two tackles for loss, one quarterback hit, and one forced fumble over his career, according to Pro Football Reference.

49ers' Nick Bosa confident he'll play in Week 1 vs. Rams

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 13:15:00 PDT

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa returned to practice Wednesday for the first time since August 3, taking a significant step toward being ready for the team's Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

Bosa appeared in just three games last season before suffering an ACL injury but was medically cleared at the start of training camp. However, his return suffered a setback after he experienced soreness and tendinitis in his surgically repaired knee.

Wednesday's session was the 49ers' final practice before departing for Melbourne, Australia, where they will face the Rams on September 10 in a Week 1 NFC West showdown.

The star pass rusher is confident he will be on the field for the season opener. He shared that Wednesday's practice "felt great" and was "very encouraging."

When asked whether he was confident he would play against the Rams, Bosa replied, "After today, yeah. It was pretty good."

While Bosa remains optimistic about his Week 1 availability, he acknowledged that the setback during his training camp ramp-up was frustrating.

"If every day of football practice you're this happy, it would be an easy job," Bosa said. "You put in so much work, you rehab for so long, and then you think you're coming back, and then you're not. Then you're back to doing workouts every day, and it's just monotonous. It kind of wears on you.

"But then you realize why you do it, and get back, and you're around the guys, and you truly feel part of the brotherhood. And take it one day at a time, but today was a great day."

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Bosa later admitted that he may have ramped up his workload too quickly at the start of training camp.

"It kind of told me to back off," Bosa said. "I've just been trying to get it as strong and as confident in myself, as confident as I can, to where I could rip the Band-Aid off and go to team drills today. Because once you get into team, there's no reservations, there's no ... taking a little effort. There's no governor.

"So yeah, I felt that today. I remember my last ACL, there was a couple moments where you just have to go, and you're kind of hoping for the best. Obviously, you know it's not going to be like anything crazy is going to happen, but you hope that your body is going to respond the way that you prepared it to. And there's a couple moments today where that happened.

"So I'm just going to try and keep building, not get too up about it. But it was a great day."

Bosa is entering his eighth NFL season after the 49ers selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Since entering the league, he has amassed 64.5 sacks and established himself as one of the NFL's premier pass rushers.

Last season's ACL injury was the second of Bosa's NFL career and his third overall. Now, after months of rehabilitation and a frustrating setback during training camp, the 49ers star appears increasingly confident that he will be ready when San Francisco opens the 2026 season against the Rams.

Former 49ers star delivers blunt criticism of Brandon Aiyuk

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 12:06:18 PDT

Most San Francisco 49ers fans may have forgotten about Brandon Aiyuk until NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco asked general manager John Lynch about the wide receiver this week.

Lynch's comments suggest the 49ers aren't thinking much about Aiyuk either, despite the disgruntled receiver officially remaining on the team's reserve/left squad list.

"He's on the reserve/left squad list, and as such, he's just kind of not on our roster, so that's where that's at," Lynch said.

Aiyuk wants to join another NFL team. However, he must first file for reinstatement with the league and report to the 49ers. Doing so would force San Francisco to make a move, likely releasing Aiyuk, which is his desired outcome. Aiyuk, however, has refused to file for reinstatement, effectively putting his NFL career on hold.

Aiyuk has also been highly critical of the 49ers this offseason, posting bizarre comments on social media. His actions have reflected poorly on him and have seemingly damaged his reputation in the NFL.

Former 49ers tight end Vernon Davis recently offered harsh criticism of Aiyuk, saying the wide receiver has handled his situation poorly.

"I think Brandon Aiyuk needs to stay out of the media, be quiet, and do what he has to do," Davis told Kyle Odegard of Casino.ca. "He's only hurting himself. Buddy, you are not bigger than the NFL. There was once upon a time when I was trying to hold out and demand more money. I realized quickly I (wasn't bigger than the NFL).

"I know his situation is more about him getting on the right team. The money is already there. It's about finding that team, and for him to do that, he's going to have to be quiet. Sit in the back seat, put a zip on his mouth, and be quiet. Play the game of football, man. Everybody knows you can play. Just play. Get on a team, be quiet, and play."

49ers legend Vernon Davis told me Brandon Aiyuk has to stay off social media and be quiet if he wants to play somewhere this season.https://t.co/2tGFqurlhU pic.twitter.com/jpc4saFciY
— Kyle Odegard (@Kyle_Odegard) September 2, 2026

Some believe Aiyuk may not play in the NFL this year because he has refused to take the necessary steps to make himself available to another team. Davis was asked whether it is too late for Aiyuk to return to the football field in 2026.

"I don't think it's too late," Davis admitted. "I think he can go into an organization, be effective, and be a good locker room guy. From what I hear about him, I don't think he's a bad person. I don't think he's a cancer in the locker room. I just think he's making some noise, and he's becoming part of the outside (distraction). He's becoming the noise."

Aiyuk last played in the NFL in 2024, appearing in seven games before suffering an ACL injury. The 49ers selected him with the No. 25 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

For now, Aiyuk's NFL future remains uncertain. His refusal to file for reinstatement has left him in limbo, while his public criticism of the 49ers has drawn additional scrutiny from many, including Davis.

49ers' Mike Evans returns to practice ahead of Australia trip

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 11:47:00 PDT

Defensive end Nick Bosa isn't the only San Francisco 49ers player who returned to practice Wednesday, the team's final on-field session before traveling to Melbourne, Australia.

Wide receiver Mike Evans, whom the 49ers revealed was dealing with an adductor injury, also returned to practice, according to multiple reports.

Mike Evans is also practicing with the #49ers on Wednesday ahead of their flight to Australia. pic.twitter.com/79IYqhmJ9c
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) September 2, 2026

Evans was the 49ers' prized offensive free-agent signing in March. The veteran wide receiver joined San Francisco after spending 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who selected him with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft.

RELATED: Nick Bosa returns to practice ahead of Australia trip

General manager John Lynch said earlier this week that the 49ers planned to get Evans back on the practice field after the team arrived in Australia ahead of its Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. It appears that the 33-year-old player is ahead of schedule.

"We've got some solid work throughout the offseason," Lynch said. "He ran into a little hiccup with his adductor, but he's working really well to the side, and hope to get him back here early next week.

"And if all goes well, he'll be suiting up and making plays for us, and that's all the guy's done throughout his career."

Another look of Mike Evans at #49ers practice on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/M0uPrvh5Jv
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) September 2, 2026

Lynch also discussed what makes Evans such a unique addition to the 49ers' offense.

"Mike is a tremendous addition," he continued. "I think he fits what we do exceptionally well. Really never had a guy like him—that tall, that big, who can run the route tree, and made us extremely interested in him. And when we found out that the interest was mutual, we couldn't have been more thrilled."

Evans' return to practice is an encouraging development for the 49ers as they prepare to face a division rival in Australia.

Other 49ers return to practice

A couple of other key 49ers players also returned to practice on Wednesday. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk and rookie cornerback Ephesians Prysock participated in the session.

Prysock has been working his way back from a shoulder injury, while Juszczyk had previously been recovering from a fractured finger.

There are still a number of 49ers who are injured/coming back from injuries. But the only potential Week 1 starters not practicing today are Renardo Green and Romello Height pic.twitter.com/3TrPlK70Fo
— Matt Barrows (@mattbarrows) September 2, 2026

49ers' Nick Bosa returns to practice ahead of Australia trip

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 11:31:00 PDT

After several weeks away from the field, San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa returned to practice Wednesday, participating in the team's final on-field work before traveling to Melbourne, Australia, for its Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

#49ers DE Nick Bosa is, indeed, in uniform and participating in early open portion of Wednesday's practice. pic.twitter.com/VmkbVKHpWD
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) September 2, 2026

Bosa last practiced with his teammates on August 3.

The star pass rusher is returning from an ACL injury that limited him to three games last season. The 49ers medically cleared Bosa at the start of training camp, but he missed his first practice on August 5 because of soreness.

Nick Bosa practicing with the #49ers on Wednesday. Wearing a some sort of knee sleeve on his right knee. pic.twitter.com/Evr6s9ucmO
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) September 2, 2026

The 49ers later revealed that Bosa was dealing with tendinitis in his surgically repaired knee and was taking a cautious approach to his return. On Wednesday morning, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that Bosa would travel with the 49ers to Australia, signaling that the team is optimistic he will be available for the season opener.

RELATED: Mike Evans returns to practice ahead of Australia trip

"Wednesday, he wants to get out on the field," general manager John Lynch said this week during a radio interview. "We've been working in conjunction with Nick on the best plan. He's been doing great work to the side. Nick has always had a great sense—and I've always believed this—really good players are very in tune with their body. Nick is certainly that. He's come back from ACLs before.

"It's disappointing because he came back in camp and was all ready, and then when he tried to get out there on the field, it got stirred up a little, and he got some tendinitis that often happens in an ACL recovery. So that was unfortunate. We pulled back. We got everything to where it was feeling better. And then Nick has kind of got behind this plan of really building him up, and then putting him back on the field."

Bear on the prowl 😤 pic.twitter.com/zbvFYYwHb2
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) September 2, 2026

Six 49ers stars earn spots in ESPN's top 100 NFL players ranking

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 08:59:12 PDT

Six San Francisco 49ers stars earned spots in ESPN's latest ranking of the NFL's top 100 players entering the 2026 season.

Twelve ESPN analysts and reporters helped compile the list, including Dan Graziano, Field Yates, and Mina Kimes. The rankings are based on projected performance for the 2026 season rather than past accomplishments.

Only one NFL team had more players represented than the 49ers: the Philadelphia Eagles, who placed eight players in the top 100.

Below are the six 49ers players who made ESPN's list, along with what ESPN 49ers reporter Nick Wagoner had to say about each player.

LB Fred Warner

2026 rank: 20
2025 rank: 13

Wagoner: "Before suffering a season-ending foot and ankle injury last October, Warner was on pace for one of his best NFL seasons with 51 tackles, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in five-plus games. He has been back to full strength all offseason and should get a full training camp to knock off any rust, which positions him to continue his reign as the league's top off-ball linebacker."

2026 projections: 149 tackles, 9 PDs, 4 FFs, 2 INTs, 1 sack

OT Trent Williams

2026 rank: 28
2025 rank: 43

Wagoner: "Williams remains one of the league's best tackles and hasn't showed many signs of slowing down at his age. In 2025, he earned All-Pro honors for the fifth time in his career. With his contract situation settled and an eye toward finishing his career after two more seasons, Williams has no shortage of motivation to put together another big season as he chases the one accolade that has eluded him: a Super Bowl title."

RB Christian McCaffrey

2026 rank: 29
2025 rank: 48

Wagoner: "Coming off a career-high 413 touches, McCaffrey will have to defy the odds to put together another big season in 2026. But he has made a career of doing just that, and this season, he should have enough help to at least draw some attention away from him. An improved downfield passing game should help open things up if the Niners commit to keeping McCaffrey fresh while still featuring him on offense."

2026 projections: 274 carries, 1,131 rushing yards, 9 TDs; 79 receptions, 682 receiving yards, 5 TDs

TE George Kittle

2026 rank: 47
2025 rank: 27

Wagoner: "Despite tearing his Achilles in January, Kittle is aiming to be back in Week 1. Even if that return has to wait a bit, Kittle still seems to have plenty in the tank at his age. Last season, he finished second among tight ends in receiving yards per game (57.1) and tied for fifth in touchdowns (seven). With more proven playmakers surrounding him in 2026, including WR Mike Evans, Kittle should get enough favorable matchups to post another All-Pro season."

2026 projections: 74 receptions, 810 receiving yards, 6 TDs

DE Nick Bosa

2026 rank: 55
2025 rank: 34

Wagoner: "The 2022 DPOY is returning from a season-ending ACL injury for the second time in his NFL career; but before he tore the ligament in his right knee during Week 3, he already had two sacks, two forced fumbles and fumble recovery. The addition of defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa should create more opportunities for Bosa to win one-on-ones and clean up when the interior pass rush drops quarterbacks in his lap."

2026 projections: 64 tackles, 11 sacks, 3 FFs, 1 PD

QB Brock Purdy

2026 rank: 73
2025 rank: 96

Wagoner: "Purdy missed eight games in 2025 with a toe injury, but once he recovered, he had one of the best stretches of his career (a 73.2 QBR that ranked fourth in the NFL from Week 11 on). With a revamped WR room that includes Mike Evans, Christian Kirk and promising rookie De'Zhaun Stribling, a healthy Purdy looks poised to build on that finishing flourish."

2026 projections: 4,181 passing yards, 27 TDs, 14 INTs; 65 carries, 277 rushing yards, 4 TDs

While concerns remain about the team's ability to stay healthy and the age of its core stars, the six players featured in ESPN's top 100 underscore that the 49ers still boast one of the NFL's most talent-rich rosters entering the 2026 season.

Rapoport: 49ers' George Kittle, Nick Bosa traveling to Australia ahead of Rams opener

David Bonilla — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:03:00 PDT

All-Pro tight end George Kittle will travel with the San Francisco 49ers as the team departs for Melbourne, Australia, on Wednesday, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. The news strongly indicates that Kittle has a legitimate chance to play against the Los Angeles Rams in the 49ers' Week 1 matchup.

Kittle likely would not be making the trip if the 49ers believed he had little chance of playing. Rapoport added that the veteran tight end has put together two positive days of practice. San Francisco will hold one final practice Wednesday before departing for its overseas flight.

"Kittle is trending in the right direction to play," Rapoport wrote.

Kittle is working his way back from the torn Achilles he suffered during last season's playoffs.

Additionally, defensive end Nick Bosa will travel with the 49ers to Australia. Like Kittle, Bosa's inclusion on the trip is an encouraging sign that the star pass rusher could suit up against the Rams in Melbourne.

Bosa appeared in just three games last season before suffering an ACL injury. Although he was medically cleared in time for training camp, he experienced a setback after dealing with soreness and tendinitis in his surgically repaired knee.

Bosa has not practiced in several weeks but is expected to participate in Wednesday's final practice before the 49ers depart for Australia. His status will be one of the key storylines to monitor as San Francisco prepares for its Week 1 showdown with the Rams in Melbourne.

The #49ers leave today for their game vs the #Rams in Australia, and star TE George Kittle will make the trip after 2 positive days of practice, sources say. Kittle is trending in the right direction to play.

DE Nick Bosa, ramping up with his knee, will also make the trip. pic.twitter.com/4MwRMIRLj5
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 2, 2026

49ers rookie De'Zhaun Stribling explains number change, reveals goal for Australia trip

David Bonilla — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:06:00 PDT

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling will play his first regular-season NFL game nearly 7,900 miles from home when the team travels to Melbourne, Australia, to face the Los Angeles Rams on September 10.

"What an experience, going to Australia," Stribling told reporters on Tuesday. "I've never been there. Heard great things, so very excited to be there and play there in my first NFL game."

Stribling's plan for the long overseas flight involves getting plenty of sleep, watching some shows when he needs to stay awake, and then sleeping some more.

As for what he's looking forward to seeing during his time in Australia, the first-year receiver had a surprising answer.

"I kind of want to see a kangaroo, just because," he said. "You know, see how big they are. So, that's really it."

We can assume that Stribling also hopes to see his 49ers win their first game of the season against their rivals, the Rams.

De'Zhaun Stribling explains his number change

Unfortunately for any 49ers fans who may have purchased Stribling jerseys early, those jerseys are already out of date. The rookie enters the 2026 season wearing No. 7 instead of No. 15, which he wore throughout the offseason and preseason.

"I wore 7 back in high school," Stribling explained. "It was one of my favorite numbers at the time. I kind of just want to be comfortable in that and do my thing."

Stribling was also humorously asked about another 49ers receiver who recently wore No. 7. Well, technically, it was a 35-year-old man named Daejon Love, who was recently arrested after impersonating a 49ers receiver to allegedly scam at least 26 women out of $1.3 million across four states.

Love shared photos on social media in which he pretended to wear No. 7 for the team.

"Yeah, it's hilarious," Stribling said when asked if he received any texts about his number now matching the one Love pretended to wear. "That's kind of crazy, but it's pretty cool at the same time."

For Stribling, however, the focus is on what comes next. After making a strong impression during training camp and the preseason, the rookie is preparing for his first regular-season opportunity—and an unforgettable NFL debut in Australia.

49ers' Keion White opens up about returning from gunshot wound

David Bonilla — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:55:00 PDT

With all of the bizarre offseason storylines surrounding the San Francisco 49ers, from Brandon Aiyuk's antics to Jed York's arrest, it became easy to forget that defensive end Keion White was shot in the ankle in February.

The good news is that White has made a strong recovery after undergoing ankle surgery. He even played 17 defensive snaps in the team's preseason finale against the Las Vegas Raiders and ultimately earned a spot on the 53-man roster.

The 49ers acquired White last season in a trade with the New England Patriots, hoping he could help strengthen a struggling pass rush.

The injury occurred during an incident at a San Francisco nightclub. A police spokesperson later clarified that the situation stemmed from an altercation involving rapper Lil Baby but said White was not believed to have been directly involved in the dispute.

White spoke with reporters Tuesday and shared additional details about the incident that led to his surgery.

"I got shot," White said bluntly. "It was a gunshot to the foot. I broke my talus bone, so I had to have surgery—two screws in there. But yeah, brush it off. Literally was making jokes as I was going to the hospital, so I don't really be too serious."

#49ers DE Keion White details the shooting incident he was involved in this offseason.

He said he didn't realize he got shot for about 5 minutes. He broke his talus bone during the incident. pic.twitter.com/bvOdc1iKpb
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) September 1, 2026

White revealed that the screws remain in his foot, even offering his own lighthearted perspective.

"Two small screws in my ankle," he said. "So, I got screws in each ankle now, so I'm symmetrical."

When asked whether he feared for his life during the incident, White downplayed the mental impact it had on him.

"Nah, the funny part is I was actually the one calming everybody else down," White said. "I don't really take a lot of things seriously. I didn't know I got shot until like five minutes after, as I was walking around."

Despite returning to the field during the preseason, White acknowledged that his recovery is still ongoing.

"To be honest, it's still an ongoing thing," White said. "Still dealing with my ankle and everything like that, recovering. Just having to take myself a day at a time, but I feel pretty good right now. It was like a touch-and-go situation right up to the beginning of training camp, for real."

After returning to the field during the preseason, the 49ers defensive end will look to make an impact on San Francisco's defensive front in 2026.

49ers have a 'real legit plan' in place for Nick Bosa, says Raheem Morris

David Bonilla — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:33:06 PDT

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa was among the nine players who did not practice on Tuesday. However, general manager John Lynch revealed during a radio interview earlier in the day that Bosa plans to participate on Wednesday before the team travels to Australia.

49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris spoke with reporters after Tuesday's practice. While he declined to reveal specifics of the plan for Bosa's return, Morris acknowledged that the pass rusher will also have plenty of time to practice once they arrive in Australia.

When asked how confident he feels about his pass rush personnel, Morris said, "I feel pretty good about it."

A reporter asked Morris whether Bosa needs to practice on Wednesday to demonstrate that he is ready for Week 1 and make the trip to Australia with his teammates. The defensive coordinator downplayed the importance of Bosa getting on the practice field this week.

"Bosa's played a lot of football," Morris explained. "For me to feel comfortable, it'd be different. It's more about Bosa. So, what does Bosa need? What does he need to get out there and prepare himself to go be the very best version of himself?

"So Bosa has got a plan in place. I don't want to reveal it if head coach Kyle Shanahan hasn't done it. I'll let him do that stuff, break the news to you on what's going on with that."

Bosa appeared in just three games last season before suffering an ACL injury. Although he was medically cleared at the start of training camp, the 49ers have worked to ramp up his workload gradually.

Unfortunately, Bosa experienced a setback, dealing with soreness and tendinitis in his surgically repaired knee. At this point, his continued absence from practice could simply be precautionary, and the 49ers remain optimistic that the star pass rusher will be ready for the Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

"But obviously, they've got a real legit plan," Morris continued. "We've got head strength & conditioning coach Dustin Perry, we've got head athletic trainer Dustin Little, we've got Kyle Shanahan, general manager John Lynch, all of his coaches, all-hands-on-deck type mentality to get him ready to go.

"So, whatever it takes for him to get out there, I'm just going to feel good when he gets a chance to get out there and be able to call those plays for him."

49ers announce four more practice squad signings

Site Staff — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:23:00 PDT

The San Francisco 49ers announced the signings of the following four players to the team's practice squad:

DL Vincent Anthony Jr.
CB Brandon Codrington
DL Kevin Givens
OL Foster Sarell

The 49ers Communications staff provided the following rundown.

Anthony Jr. (6-6, 258) originally entered the NFL after signing with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent on May 1, 2026, and was later waived by the team on August 30.

A 22-year-old native of Durham, N.C., Anthony Jr. attended Duke University for four seasons (2022-25), where he appeared in 48 games and registered 103 tackles, 29.0 tackles for loss, 15.0 sacks, eight passes defensed, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

Codrington (5-9, 185) originally entered the NFL after signing as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets on May 6, 2024. Throughout his two-year career with the Jets (2024), Buffalo Bills (2024-26), and Houston Texans (2026), he has appeared in 21 games and totaled nine tackles, two fumble recoveries, and one pass defensed. In 2025, Codrington appeared in four games with the Bills. He signed with the Texans on February 5, 2026, before being waived by the team on August 30.

A 25-year-old native of Raleigh, N.C., Codrington attended North Carolina Central University, where he appeared in 44 games and totaled 98 tackles, 11 passes defensed, 2.0 tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

Givens (6-1, 285) originally entered the NFL after signing as an undrafted free agent with the 49ers on May 3, 2019. Over his seven seasons with San Francisco, Givens has played in 70 games (14 starts) and registered 93 tackles, 8.0 sacks, three passes defensed, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble. He has also appeared in nine postseason contests and tallied 12 tackles and one pass defensed. In 2025, Givens appeared in five games with the team and recorded two tackles. He re-signed with the team on July 26, 2026, before being waived by the team on August 5.

A 29-year-old native of Newark, NJ, Givens attended Penn State University, where he appeared in 39 games (22 starts) and finished with 82 tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, 13.0 sacks, four passes defensed, three fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.

Sarell (6-7, 315) originally entered the NFL after signing as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens on May 13, 2021. Throughout his five-year career with the Ravens (2021), New York Giants (2021), Los Angeles Chargers (2021-25), Washington Commanders (2025, 2026), and Denver Broncos (2026), he has appeared in 41 games (four starts) along the offensive line and appeared in two postseason contests. In 2025, he appeared in six games (one start) with the Chargers along the offensive line.

A 28-year-old native of Graham, WA, Sarell attended Stanford University, where he appeared in 33 games (16 starts) along the offensive line.

49ers' Raheem Morris reveals what makes Shanahan vs. McVay rivalry so special

David Bonilla — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:01:27 PDT

San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Raheem Morris has a unique perspective on the rivalry between Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay. Morris has worked alongside both head coaches, serving as McVay's defensive coordinator for three seasons before joining Shanahan's staff as the 49ers' defensive coordinator this year.

Morris also previously worked with Shanahan as an assistant with the Atlanta Falcons, Washington, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He and McVay were assistants together with the Buccaneers in 2008.

That background gives Morris a rare perspective on two of the NFL's most respected offensive minds. On Tuesday, the 49ers defensive coordinator shared what makes the Shanahan-versus-McVay matchups so compelling.

"You're talking about two of the best minds in football," Morris told reporters. "Kyle's been doing it for such a long time at such a high level. And really, the Shanahan name, talking about his dad, talking about the lineage of what's gone on throughout that process.

"Kyle really doesn't get enough credit. All those guys were together with him, and then they've gone and kind of branched out and done some really good things, whether it's Matt LaFleur, whether it's Mike LaFleur, whether it's even Sean McVay. They've explored, they've done different things."

As a defensive-minded coach who also served as the Falcons' head coach for two seasons, Morris has another unique perspective: what it's like to game-plan against offenses led by Shanahan and McVay. He admits that preparing to face either coach can be a "pain in the neck" for defensive coordinators.

Morris will be part of another Shanahan-versus-McVay showdown on September 10, when the 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, to open their 2026 seasons.

"I've been able to join them and coach on the same side of the ball, been on the opposite side of the ball," Morris continued. "It's always going to be fun. It's always going to be good. It's just a matter of who executes that day, so it's something that we all love to watch."

49ers injury update: 9 players miss Tuesday's practice

David Bonilla — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:30:00 PDT

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa was among the players who did not practice on Tuesday, though his absence was not unexpected. During a radio interview Tuesday morning, general manager John Lynch said Bosa is not expected to participate until Wednesday, the team's final practice before traveling to Australia.

ESPN's Nick Wagoner reported the following nine players did not participate in the open portion of Tuesday's practice. It's worth noting that reporters are only permitted to watch a small portion of practice, including the early warmups and individual drills, before leaving ahead of team drills.

Did not practice:

DE Nick Bosa (soreness/tendinitis)
WR Jacob Cowing (groin)
WR Mike Evans (adductor)
LB Luke Gifford (hamstring)
DT Gracen Halton (ankle)
DE Romello Height (ankle)
FB Kyle Juszczyk (finger fracture)
CB Renardo Green (hamstring)
CB Ephesians Prysock (shoulder)

The nine players represent the same number who reportedly did not practice on Monday. However, there are a couple of changes to the list.

Juszczyk, who practiced Monday, did not participate Tuesday. Meanwhile, tight end Brayden Willis, who had been in the concussion protocol, returned to practice.

Lynch also shared that Evans is expected to return to practice in Australia, and the 49ers remain optimistic that he will play in Week 1 against the Rams.

The 49ers are scheduled to hold their final practice of the week on Wednesday before departing for Australia ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

#49ers not participating in practice during early open portion of Tuesday's session:

DE Nick Bosa
DE Romello Height
DT Gracen Halton
CB Renardo Green
WR Mike Evans
WR Jacob Cowing
FB Kyle Juszczyk
LB Luke Gifford
CB Ephesians Prysock

TE Brayden Willis is back from concussion.
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) September 1, 2026

No Mike Evans or Jacob Cowing with the #49ers wide receivers today pic.twitter.com/s4jJbhJ8Ds
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) September 1, 2026

49ers' John Lynch details what went into complicated Australia travel plans

David Bonilla — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 10:52:00 PDT

The San Francisco 49ers will travel to Melbourne, Australia, this week ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. The lengthy journey has required extensive planning and some difficult decisions, as the trip represents somewhat uncharted territory for the organization.

However, the 49ers have done their due diligence. While the Rams have opted to leave for Australia much later than San Francisco, that did not influence the 49ers' travel decisions. Instead, they relied on significant research.

"We didn't really focus on what the Rams were doing," general manager John Lynch said Tuesday morning on Bay Area radio station KNBR. "We focused on doing a study from every angle, from talking to sports science people, from talking to sleep experts."

The 49ers also spoke with athletes with extensive international travel experience, gaining valuable insights into the challenges of long-distance travel and significant time-zone changes.

More importantly, the team's decision-makers spoke with its players, presented the data they had gathered, and solicited their input.

"And overwhelmingly, our players felt like wanting to get down there early ," Lynch said.

Lynch added that the 49ers even sent an advance group of staff members to Australia and had them report back on their adjustment to the time change. The group found that the effects lingered for about three days, and that information became an important factor in the decision to leave for Australia early.

"It became clear to us, in our mind, that the best logistics for this trip, to put our players in the best position for success, not only down in Australia, but for the rest of the year, involved leaving early ," Lynch said.

The 49ers general manager also reflected on his own experience with NFL international travel, recalling a trip with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to Japan for a preseason game. That trip had a lasting impact after the team returned home.

"I really felt like we were off for multiple weeks after it," Lynch admitted. "So it's not just while you're down there. How can you set yourself up best for when you come back? We took all that into account, and it's the schedule we came up with."

Lynch even revealed that the date of the 49ers' final preseason game was factored into their planning for the Australian trip. San Francisco worked with the Las Vegas Raiders, who agreed to play their preseason finale on a Thursday, giving the 49ers additional time to prepare for the trip and the mandatory roster cutdown ahead of Week 1.

"I think it was really important, and appreciate the Raiders working with us to have that game on Thursday," Lynch shared.

The 49ers did not have to travel far during the preseason. They played their first game at Levi's Stadium before making short trips to Los Angeles to face the Chargers and Las Vegas to face the Raiders. Working with the Raiders to schedule their preseason finale on a Thursday was an important part of San Francisco's Week 1 preparation plan.

"They were good partners in that, and then made the suggestion, 'Let's do this Thursday so we have ample time, diagnose injuries, and all that before the 53-man roster was set,'" Lynch added.

Then came the challenges of building the 49ers' practice squad. While several players who had already spent time with the team during the offseason were added, the 49ers needed to ensure that any newcomers had valid passports before joining.

"The first time I've ever had to say to an agent, or our people had to say to an agent or a player, 'Do you have a passport?'" Lynch said. "Because if not, it's not a deal-killer. We can figure this out, but you've got to get out here. So just a ton of logistics. Our staff has been tremendous in handling all those things.

"There's been a lot of work to make this as good as we can for our players, and I think now, the complaining's done, and now it's like embracing the opportunity to go see a country we haven't seen, but know it's also a business trip, and we're down there to do one thing, and find a way to win a football game."