Ahead of Thursday’s practice, head coach Kyle Shanahan announced the team is shutting down linebacker Dre Greenlaw for the final two weeks of the regular season.

Greenlaw made his long-awaited return from a torn Achilles in Week 15, playing one half in a defensive effort that kept the Los Angeles Rams out of the endzone. The linebacker could not finish the game due to soreness and tweaking his knee.

Later that week, Greenlaw said he was good to go and would suit up vs. the Miami Dolphins. On Sunday against Miami, Greenlaw made his second start of the season. Four snaps later, he removed himself from the game after injuring his right calf.

On the CBS broadcast, sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson said Greenlaw was “yelling, screaming, and limping in pain.”

In a conference call with the media on Monday, head coach Kyle Shanahan said it was likely the team would shut Greenlaw down. Shanahan added he would leave the decision up to the linebacker, depending on the severity of the MRI results.

Today, Shanahan said he and Greenlaw talked, and the linebacker understood the decision to cut his return short.

Immediate Dre Greenlaw Replacements

The 49ers’ linebacker core has been decimated this season. Backup Curtis Robinson tore his ACL during Training Camp. De’Vondre Campell is serving a season-ending suspension after quitting on the team amidst Greenlaw’s return, and now Greenlaw has been shut down. Not to mention, Fred Warner has been playing on a fractured ankle for the better half of the season.

Even 2024 seventh-round pick Tatum Bethune, who just had his practice window opened, has spent the last month on Injured Reserve.

Against the Lions, the 49ers will start Warner and second-year linebacker Dee Winters. Warner and Winters are the only linebacker duo with an average coverage grade above 90 in over 100 snaps, per Pro Football Focus.

Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles will likely fill in on base downs. 2023 seventh-round pick Jalen Graham is the only other healthy backup linebacker on the active roster.

While the San Francisco 49ers look to finish the season without Greenlaw, his future is a massive unknown.

Greenlaw’s Future

49ers’ Dre Greenlaw will be an unrestricted free agent this coming offseason. The assumption was if the linebacker could stay healthy, he would ask for a large chunk of change. But now, with his health a question, it is hard to imagine Greenlaw commanding a large salary.

That may work in the 49ers’ favor, as the front office has already indicated they want to re-sign Greenlaw for a “long time.”

But if Greenlaw decides to chase the money, something he has already said he wanted for Christmas, 2024 could be his swan song in the Red and Gold.

On the chance Greenlaw departs, the 49ers could ride with Warner and Winters next season. Another option is scouring the free agent market, an avenue Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder insists upon.

The San Francisco 49ers have two games left this season, and the focus will be on the middle of their defense. Can Winters end his sophomore year strong, making retaining Greenlaw no longer a necessity? Or will Greenlaw be missed enough to make re-signing a top priority this offseason?

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The move comes as no surprise following head coach Kyle Shanahan’s conference call with the media on Monday, where he told reporters Williams will not play the final two games of the season.

The eleven-time pro bowler has been battling an ankle and heel injury he suffered in the team’s November 10th victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played through the injury the following week and was initially listed as questionable for Week 12 against the Packers but was ruled out. After the game, he was seen riding a knee scooter.

In the final two weeks of the season, the 49ers will look to piece together a makeshift left side of the offensive line.

Replacing Trent Williams

Earlier this week, the 49ers also placed backup left tackle Jaylon Moore on Injured Reserve with a quad injury. 

Moore, who had been filling in for Williams, was having the best year of his career. Posting a career-high 73 pass-block grade and allowing just ten pressures, Moore made the loss of Williams manageable.

With Williams and Moore on the shelf, San Francisco hopes Spencer Burford can start Sunday against the Detroit Lions.

Unfortunately, Burford is not practicing on Thursday due to a calf injury.  Shanahan did say “there is a chance” the former fifth-round pick can play this Sunday.

If all three of the 49ers tackles are unavailable, the team must turn to recently signed Charlie Heck or Austin Pleasants.

Heck is a former fourth-round pick of the Texans. He has appeared in 48 games (21 starts) with Houston (2020-23) and Arizona (2024).

Meanwhile, Pleasants has played in three games staggered across a four-year NFL career. He has never started a game in his NFL career.

A last resort option would be elevating Sebastian Gutierrez from the practice squad. The former undrafted free agent has played in one game with the 49ers since 2023. Like Pleasants, he would be in line for his first career start.

49ers Sign Offensive Lineman

The 49ers signed center Matt Hennessy to a two-year contract. Hennessy’s signing adds much-needed depth to a depleted offensive line, with backup center Nick Zakelj in line to start at left guard on Sunday.

The signing also adds an intriguing future option for 2025.

Hennessy is a former third-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2020. Ironically, Hennessy learned under former 49ers’ center Alex Mack before taking over the starting job in Atlanta from him.

With 22 starts under his belt, Hennessy has a 96.8 pass-blocking efficiency rating and only allowed 44 pressures and six sacks in 807 pass-blocking snaps. As a first-year starter in 2021, Hennessy totaled the 3rd highest run-blocking grade in the NFL (88.1).

The former Temple product has dealt with his fair share of injuries, most notably a knee injury that cost him the entire 2023 season. 

Hennessy’s signing gives the 49ers high-end potential at a low-risk cost. He can also enter 2025 battling Jake Brendel for the starting center position, who currently ranks 52nd with a 48.9 pass-blocking grade, per Pro Football Focus.

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The prevailing candidate is Kirk Cousins, who expects to be released by the Atlanta Falcons this offseason after being benched for 2024 first-round pick Michael Penix in Week 16. The ties to head coach Kyle Shanahan and familiarity with the 49ers’ system make Cousins an intriguing option as a backup or potential starter.

Despite the illegitimate rumors, the San Francisco 49ers remain committed to Brock Purdy, according to the Athletic’s NFL insider Dianna Russini.

“They are committed to making Brock Purdy work in San Francisco,” Russini said Tuesday on the Scoop City podcast. “Could things change? Of course.”

Brock Purdy’s Next Contract

Although Russini left the door open for a change under center, San Francisco’s plan is to sign Brock Purdy to a contract extension this season. The third-year quarterback is expected to see a significant raise from his $1.1 million base salary in 2025.

What that raise looks like depends on how the 49ers view Purdy’s 2024 campaign. An injury-ravaged roster certainly plays a part in the signal-callers regression, but in a year to prove his capabilities, Purdy has been inconsistent.

In a 2023 Pro Bowl-worthy season, Purdy completed 69.4 percent of his passes for 4,280 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He also finished fifth in the MVP vote and led San Francisco to an overtime loss in Super Bowl 58. He has followed it up by completing 65 percent of his passes for 3,487 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.

The drop-off has caused a debate regarding what Purdy’s new deal will look like.

ESPN’s Bill Barnwell believes Purdy and his agent will seek a record-breaking $65 million-per-year contract.

Meanwhile, an anonymous NFL executive told The Athletic’s Mike Sando that Purdy’s deal was no longer a slam dunk following a 12-6 loss against the Rams.

“The new contract for Purdy [in the offseason] was a slam dunk for me until Thursday night. What I saw was a guy who was so limited physically. I’m not saying I don’t want him. It’s just the first time I’ve said, ‘Hmmm, he can’t make those throws.”

Most of Purdy’s physical limitations can be chalked up to a Week 11 shoulder injury, but his late-game struggles have been evident this season.

Purdy’s Late Game Struggles

The 49ers have trailed with two minutes remaining in six games this season. Purdy’s stats are, at worst, highly unimpressive.

He is averaging 7.3 yards per pass, has thrown one touchdown, and turned the ball over twice. Purdy’s turnovers came with over 1:30 minutes left in the game. He forced both passes to unopened receivers despite having plenty of time to march downfield. The 49ers are 0-6, and the team has managed just five total first downs when trailing late in games, per Pro Football Reference.

Purdy’s late-game struggles led Dan Pizzuta of The 33rd Team to say the 49ers have a “Purdy problem.”

“There’s going to be a lot of change for this San Francisco team based on how the team goes about contracts this offseason,” Pizzuta wrote. “The biggest domino will be the Purdy deal. While he’s done more on his own this season, he does not look like the type of quarterback who should be paid at the top of the market. The last drives of this game are proof.”

Pizzuta is referencing San Francisco’s last three drives against the Dolphins in Week 16. On consecutive drives, the team punted, Purdy threw an interception, and turned the ball over on downs.

It is unfair to blame all the 49ers issues on Purdy. He is one man in a unit of 11. He has had to scramble 46 times this season, the fourth-highest clip in the league. Purdy has also missed 2023 leading target Brandon Aiyuk and Christian McCaffrey for a combined 19 games this season.

The San Francisco 49ers will have to decide how much of the team’s struggles are on Purdy. In negotiations, the difference between $50 million and $65 million could rely on where the 49ers point fingers.

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Yet, his return date was one the team and every fan had circled on their calendars. “Just wait til we get Dre Greenlaw back,” was a common phrase heard when asked how the team could fix its defensive struggles. And in his first game this season, that sentiment rang true.

The 49ers defense held the Rams to 12 points, and before Achilles fatigue and soreness kept Greenlaw off the field, it limited Los Angeles to 79 total yards. Having Greenlaw back altered almost everything about San Francisco’s defense and finally gave the team its emotional leader back.

Unfortunately, just like the rest of the 49ers 2024 season, the good times do not last.

49ers’ Dre Greenlaw Done for the Season?

On Sunday against the Dolphins, Greenlaw made his second start of the season. Four snaps later, he removed himself from the game.

On the CBS broadcast, sideline reporter Tracy Wolfson said Greenlaw was “yelling, screaming, and limping in pain.”

The report was worrisome, and the fear of Greenlaw reinjuring his Achilles percolated across social media.

In a conference call with the media on Monday, head coach Kyle Shanahan disclosed Greenlaw injured his right calf and was waiting for MRI results to reveal the severity.

Greenlaw battled right calf soreness during the 2023 season but ended up tearing his left Achilles during the Super Bowl.

When asked if the team has thought of shutting Greenlaw down for the rest of the season, Shanahan admitted it is on the table.

“My gut is most likely that he’ll end up being shut down, but I gotta wait to talk to Dre on that,” Shanahan said. “And we’ll still make sure to see exactly how he is doing because, right now, we just have it as just soreness and stuff. But that’ll definitely be a decision that I’ll leave up to Dre, depending on what his health is.”

With the 49ers considering shutting Greenlaw down, his future with the team remains uncertain.

Greenlaw’s Future

49ers’ Dre Greenlaw will be an unrestricted free agent this coming offseason. The assumption was if the linebacker could stay healthy, he would ask for a large chunk of change. But, with another lower-body injury, it is hard to imagine Greenlaw commanding a large salary.

That may work in the 49ers’ favor, as the front office has already indicated they want to re-sign Greenlaw for a “long time.”

Yet, one has to wonder how much money the front office is willing to commit to a linebacker who has not played a full game since the 2023 playoffs. The team also plans to extend Brock Purdy’s contract this offseason, adding another wrinkle into the fold.

What was supposed to be a celebrated return has quickly turned into a serious cause for concern.

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The decision made Moody the highest-drafted kicker since 2016 and only the second top-100 kicker to be selected in the past 17 years. Niners general manager John Lynch explained after drafting Moody that the team’s roster competitiveness often leads to close games and thus, having a reliable kicker is crucial.

Since getting drafted just under two years ago, however, Moody has struggled to find consistency — more on that later. After another rough outing against the Miami Dolphins Week 16, Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated believes the kicker’s days are numbered in San Francisco.

Noting 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan “sounds like a head coach who has had it with his kicker,” Cohn laid out why he thinks Moody is donezo after this year.

Will San Francisco 49ers Waive Kicker Jake Moody in 2025?

As the good old Magic 8 Ball used to say, the outlook is not so good for Moody when it comes to his future in the Bay Area.

“The 49ers drafted Moody in the third round last year. As a rookie, he was solid. He made 84 percent of his field goal attempts, which ranked 20th in the league. He also made 60 of 61 extra points in the regular season,” Cohn wrote, adding:

“But in the playoffs, Moody missed one field goal in each of the 49ers’ three games, including a missed extra point in the Super Bowl. And he hasn’t seemed to recover since then. This season, Moody has made just 76.7 percent of his field goal attempts, which ranks 29th in the NFL. I’m guessing he won’t be on the team next season.”

Moody has been money on field goals under 40 yards this season. But as the distance increases, he gets shakier. He’s 6-for-10 on field goals attempted from 40-49 yards and 3-for-6 on kicks 50 yards or more.

A Further Breakdown of Moody’s Struggles This Season

Moody’s collegiate career at Michigan was distinguished by remarkable consistency and performance under pressure. He won the Lou Groza Award in 2021, honoring the nation’s top kicker, and set school records for career points (355) and single-season points (147).

His track record of reliability and leg strength made him an attractive choice for the 49ers, who were seeking a dependable replacement for veteran kicker Robbie Gould.

After a decent rookie campaign in 2023, things haven’t gone so well, however.

In 2024, Moody has had several key misses, particularly during away games. His struggles started Week 3 against the Los Angeles Rams, where he missed a critical 55-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter. This miss contributed to the 49ers’ 27-24 loss, and it shined a spotlight on Moody’s difficulties in high-pressure situations on the road.

Moody’s season took another turn Week 5 against the Arizona Cardinals when he sustained a high ankle sprain while attempting a tackle during a kickoff. This injury sidelined him for several games, during which the 49ers had to rely on backup kickers.

Upon his return in Week 10 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Moody missed three field goals. His performance drew criticism and led to a sideline confrontation with teammate Deebo Samuel. Despite these misses, Moody redeemed himself by successfully kicking a 44-yard field goal as time expired, securing a 23-20 victory for the 49ers.

Week 16, Moody’s struggles reemerged during the 49ers’ 29-17 loss to the Dolphins. He missed a 48-yard field goal attempt in the third quarter, which could have narrowed the scoring gap. This miss not only affected the game’s momentum but amplified concerns about his consistency.

It’s clear that at the very least, the 49ers need to evaluate Moody’s performance to determine if adjustments are necessary to bolster their special teams unit. We’ll see how far they take that evaluation this offseason.

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In a conference call with the media on Monday, head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters Williams will not play in the team’s final two games, effectively ending his 2024 campaign.

The eleven-time pro bowler has been battling an ankle and heel injury he suffered in the team’s November 10th victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He played through the injury the following week and was initially listed as questionable for Week 12 against the Packers but was ruled out. After the game, he was seen riding a knee scooter.

Throughout his time off the field, Williams has also dealt with personal tragedy.

On November 24th, Sondra Williams, the left tackle’s wife, announced in an Instagram post that she gave birth to the couple’s stillborn son, Trenton O’Brien Williams Jr., after he died in the womb at 35 weeks of pregnancy.

The left tackle has not reported back to the team since the passing of his son.

In Williams’ absence, San Francisco has given up 54 total pressures, per Pro Football Focus. The team has also been eliminated from the playoffs. Without Williams this season, the 49ers have a 1-4 record.

Unfortunately, the 49ers are facing more injuries on the offensive line.

49ers’ Trent Williams Replacements

The San Francisco 49ers also announced that Jaylon Moore will not play in the team’s final two games after suffering a quad injury in Sunday’s loss vs. Dolphins.

Moore, who had been filling in for Williams, was having the best year of his career. Posting a career-high 73 pass-block grade and allowing just ten pressures, Moore made the loss of Williams not as drastic.

In five games this season, Moore posted the team’s third-highest pass blocking for players with more than six games played. His ten pressures were the fewest of any 49ers’ offensive lineman to start more than five games.

Former fifth-round Spencer Burford relieved Moore in Sunday’s loss vs. Miami and played relatively well. Having never played a professional snap at left tackle, Burford allowed two pressures and an above average pass blocking grade, per Pro Football Focus.

Yet, Burford’s status for Week 17 is uncertain after suffering a calf injury. Shanahan stated the team is waiting for the results of an MRI before they make an injury designation.

If Burford is unavailable, the 49ers will rely on recently signed Austen Pleasants or look to the free-agent pool for help.

Pleasants has never started a game in his NFL career.

The team could re-sign Sebastian Gutierrez, who they recently waived. Gutierrez has played in one game with the 49ers since 2023. Like Pleasants, he would be in line for his first career start.

Other Injury News

Linebacker Dre Greenlaw is battling a calf injury and is waiting for MRI results. The linebacker played four snaps on Sunday vs. the Dolphins before removing himself from the game. Shanahan did not rule out shutting him down for the rest of the season.

Safety Ji’Ayir Brown (ankle) and linebacker Dee Winters (chest) are both day-to-day.

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Purdy’s overall performance has regressed this year, but he’s still shown that he is a top-end QB in the NFL. So if the Niners do enter contract negotiations with their QB this offseason, there could be discrepancies in what each side is expecting.

KNBR host Larry Krueger believes fans should temper their expectations on a discount. He may go for less than other big names, but there won’t be much of a cut price.

“I haven’t talked to the agent, but I know people that have, and he’s not going for this three years, $40 million [annually], all of it guaranteed, $120 [million total],” Krueger said. “They’re not going an AAV of $40 million when [Dallas Cowboys QB] Dak Prescott’s at $60 million… So I think there’s potential for Brock to maybe give the Niners some form of a discount so they can build a roster around him that enables him to compete for a championship, but I think you’re crazy if you think he’s settling for $45 million.”

Essentially, the $50-60 million estimate that fans have heard before is the hope, not the starting point. That’s a huge deal, but it is also what NFL teams have to pay to keep a good QB around.

ESPN Analyst Estimates Purdy’s Next Deal

Purdy’s next contract has been a talking point since the 49ers’ run to the 2024 Super Bowl. But the San Francisco QB still had 2 years on his rookie deal, so an extension was always going to be something the 49ers would deal with in 2025.

For ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell, the Prescott deal is still the benchmark. Purdy’s agents will likely try to get him an even bigger deal than the Cowboys QB’s, but whether that happens or not after a middling year remains to be seen.

“If the 49ers pay the going rate for a franchise quarterback next year, they’re topping the deal Dak Prescott just inked with the Cowboys, which is north of $60 million per season,” Barnwell wrote on December 12. “I suggested over the summer a Purdy deal would come in at five years and $235 million, or $65 million per year. That’s still the number he and his agents are likely targeting.”

$65 million per season would make Purdy the highest-paid QB in the NFL. Prescott gets his $60+ million per year, but no one else hits the $60 million mark.

Purdy’s Mixed Bag in Recent 49ers Loss

As has been the case for the majority of the season, San Francisco saw themselves live and die by Purdy against the Miami Dolphins. His two touchdown passes kept the game in reach, and his 313 passing yards was critical as the Niners only ran for 81 yards.

However, his biggest mistake of the game ended San Francisco’s chances. Down 22-17, the 49ers had the ball with over 2 minutes remaining. But Purdy threw his worst pass of the day during the drive, giving an easy interception to Kader Kohou and essentially ending the game.

San Francisco did get the ball again, but only after Dolphins RB Devon Achane took a handoff 50 yards for a score and a 29-17 lead.

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Ricky Pearsall’s Penalties

Pearsall began his day by catching four passes for 37 yards, including a 21-yard crosser. The 31st overall pick was looking like an early breakout candidate and a positive sign down the stretch of a lost season. Positives quickly took a turn towards the negative in a flash.

Trailing 16-10 with eight minutes left in the third quarter, the 49ers were marching and on their way to score a second touchdown. A 28-yard strike from quarterback Brock Purdy and tight end George Kittle set up the offense inside the red zone.

First down on the Dolphins’ 20-yard line, head coach Kyle Shanahan called a Patrick Taylor Jr. running play. Pearsall was flagged for illegal formation, moving the offense back to the 25-yard line. One mistake is not a drive killer, but knowing the 49ers’ 25th-ranked red zone offense, a second would be the nail in the coffin.

Quarterback Brock Purdy escaped pressure on second down, setting up a manageable third down and eight. On the next play, Purdy delivered a strike to Deebo Samuel over the middle for 16 yards. The 49ers got the first down and made it to Miami’s two-yard line. Or so they thought.

Just as San Francisco’s offense began to celebrate overcoming a first and 15, the dreaded yellow flag was thrown.

Referee Scott Novak announced,  “Illegal formation. Number 14 of the offense. Five-yard penalty. Repeat third down.”

Head coach Kyle Shanahan immediately started yelling at Pearsall from the sideline. Following the drive that ended with a missed 41-yard field goal by Jake Moody, wide receiver coach Leonard Hankerson was seen chewing on Pearsall on the sideline.

“There, a really heated little chat with Pearsall” pic.twitter.com/2tmIHiHMAW

— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 22, 2024

Asked about Hankerson’s scolding, Ricky Pearsall said he did not take it personally and quickly moved on.

Aftermath

“It’s always all love with him,” Pearsall said in a conversation with Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle. “He’s just being the coach that he is. And for me, I’ve just got to accept the coaching and learn from it. It’s football. Emotions are high anyway. And I have to clean those things up. There was nothing that [happened] after that. Hank went right back to being normal. We all have the respect for each other.”

Pearsall also explained what happened on the second illegal formation penalty that negated Samuel’s 16-yard reception and potentially seven points in a game San Francisco lost 22-17.

“It was just me having to communicate with the ref and with my teammate — the tight end or the other receiver on that side of the formation with me,” Pearsall said. “Both of those penalties are definitely on me. I’ve just got to clean those things up. There’s no excuse for that.”

Pearsall missed most of training camp with hamstring and shoulder injuries before missing six regular season games after getting shot in the chest in late August.

After the game, Deebo Samuel shared his thoughts on the rookie wideouts’ mistakes.

“It’s just mental errors. At the end of the day, it happens. It comes with the game,” Samuel said. “I’ve got all the respect in the world for Ricky and all the hard work he puts in. It’s just some simple things. I’ve been there before, too, in this offense with so much terminology and knowing what to listen to. And knowing what not to listen to. It just happens fast. It’s part of growing in this offense.”

Pearsall will look to build upon his performance and clean up his mistakes when The 49ers host the Lions on Monday Night Football in Week 17.

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During the road trip to Miami, LB Dre Greenlaw had to leave the field of play with a calf issue. Greenlaw just recently returned to the team after spending the past 9 months recovering from an Achilles tear.

“#SFvsMIA @DignityHealth injury update: Dre Greenlaw is questionable with a right calf injury,” the team’s official X account posted in the first quarter of Sunday’s game.

Greenlaw never made it back on the field, but did remain on the sideline for the rest of the half. At halftime, CBS Sports anchor Matt Lively provided an update, stating that Greenlaw did not look good going into the locker room.

#49ers trail 13-10 at the half. Dre Greenlaw limped all the way to the locker room,” Lively said.

Then, right before the team came back out for the second half, Greenlaw was ruled out completely.

The most concerning aspect of the injury is that it involves Greenlaw’s right calf. The severity of the injury is not clear, but injuring something related to his Achilles is a red flag.

Greenlaw Approaching End of Contract

In terms of bad injury luck, Greenlaw has had more than his fair share. His groin injury back in 2021 happened right before he was set for a huge second contract with the Niners. Instead, he had to settle for a two-year, $16.4 million deal.

Now approaching the end of that extension, Greenlaw is dealing with the same problem. Missing the vast majority of the 2024 campaign due to the Achilles rupture is bad enough, but this new injury may hinder his next deal further.

That being said, San Francisco GM John Lynch recently explained his goal to re-sign Greenlaw. Whether or not this calf injury changes things will be a major talking point.

“We love Dre. We’re interested in keeping him here for a long time, he’s a special player,” Lynch said on KNBR.

Greenlaw is clearly a critical part of the defense, but his current issues with injuries may force the 49ers to take a different approach.

49ers Players Encourage Team to Re-sign Greenlaw

Lynch making an open statement about re-signing Greenlaw is what matters most, but the linebacker has also gotten support from his Niners teammates.

DE Nick Bosa kept it brief but sent a clear message all the same: “Got to get Dre locked in.”

Meanwhile, CB Deommodore Lenoir, who recently signed a five-year, $92 million extension, shared a similar sentiment with a comment.

“I’m praying we resign him back, get our dog back. He looked well worth it.”

Greenlaw has been a perennial starter when healthy, but a second injury puts the situation in jeopardy. If the calf injury has any relation to the Achilles tear, that could put a serious dent in his next deal.

At this rate, the 49ers will probably look for another conservative deal. San Francisco has been diligent about how they approach contracts, and they may lean towards giving Greenlaw a short-term deal to prove that he’s not losing a step.

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The 2024 season has, in many ways, been a dud for the Niners. Part of their issues has been regression from Purdy, who acknowledged his struggles and the possibility that he’s lost some of the edge that pushed him to win in his first two seasons.

Shanahan was asked about that comment during his December 20 press conference, and it’s safe to say he doesn’t get it at all.

“I heard about it because I had a radio show yesterday and they asked me about Brock saying he’s going to play with more of a chip on his shoulder. And so, that was the only thing I heard about it. He has as big of a chip on his shoulder as any player I’ve been around, so that throws me off. He’s probably just trying to answer a question and come up with something to say for you guys. But, Brock plays as hard and competitive as anyone I’ve been around,” Shanahan said.

The San Francisco head coach is just trying to back Purdy as much as possible here, but it is interesting that he publicly dismissed what his QB said.

Purdy’s Original Comments

After two exceptional seasons in the NFL, Purdy entered the 2024 campaign with high expectations. The 49ers QB was a major contender for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2022 before making the Pro Bowl in 2023.

When talking about the drop in quality this season, Purdy explained that it could be due to him losing the push that took him from “Mr. Irrelevant” to a Super Bowl starter.

“I need to get better and back to playing with a chip on my shoulder like it was my first two years,” Purdy said. “Every game, every down trying to prove to myself that I’m the guy for this team and I’m capable of doing it. That’s sort of been the case this year in some moments. I got to learn from that.”

Shanahan likely takes issue with that comment because Purdy’s implying that he knows he’s lost that edge. No coach wants to hear that a player is less than 100% locked in, and Shanahan is no different.

49ers QB Down in Important Categories

In some ways, it’s hard to blame Purdy for his regression. The 49ers have been without top offensive weapons like RB Christian McCaffrey and WR Brandon Aiyuk and have been navigating that all season.

However, the numbers show that some blame has to be placed on the QB himself. Purdy’s yards per attempt has dropped from 9.6 to 8.4 in 2024, while his QBR (65.3) is the lowest of his three NFL seasons.

One of the areas of Purdy’s game that has improved has been his rushing ability. The third-year QB has totaled 285 rushing yards through 13 games, scoring four TDs in the process.

That change is also representative of the 49ers’ issues with injuries and general offensive struggles. Purdy is having to improvise, and is finding new ways to pick up big plays by using his legs.

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To understand the 49ers’ need for a complementary tight end and eventual replacement for George Kittle, their past failures must be acknowledged.

49ers Previous Tight End Experiments

The 49ers’ lack of depth at the tight end position is concerning. They tried to work with Ross Dwelley and former sixth-round pick Charlie Woerner. Both were lackluster, blocking-first backups that added nothing to the receiving game. San Francisco attempted to address the tight-end issue in 2023 but failed miserably.

The team over-drafted Alabama tight end Cameron Latu in the third round and later selected Oklahoma’s Brayden Willis in the sixth round. Latu did not stick, and a dropping issue led to his release this offseason. He is currently not on a roster after spending most of the 2024 season on the Browns’ practice squad.

Willis has been the more productive of the two, although a brutal holding call in the Super Bowl is the highlight of his young career thus far. The team waived Willis during roster cuts, but he found his way back onto the 49ers roster halfway through this season, serving as the fourth-stringer behind Eric Saubert and Jake Tonges.

The 49ers are 7-12 without George Kittle since 2017. In 2024, the 49ers are 0-2 without Kittle on the field, including two NFC West losses against the Rams and Seahawks. 49ers’ tight ends had three catches for 48 yards across both games.

San Francisco knows a backup tight end is a need. They used two draft picks in the same year to address the position and even signed restricted free agent Brock Wright in the offseason before the Lions matched the offer, reverting him to Detroit’s roster.

With how many misses the 49ers have had, they cannot draft just anybody. San Francisco must find the perfect fit. Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski believes the Big Ten can provide a solution to the long-evasive problem.

Big Ten Provides Big Answers

In a recent post, Sobleski dissected the best fits for the top ten players in the College Football Playoffs. He listed the San Francisco 49ers, among three teams, as the best landing spot for Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.

The John Mackey Award winner has seen a career season playing for the Nittany Lions in 2024. As a fifth-year senior, Warren has 88 receptions, 1,062 yards, and six touchdowns in 13 games. His production and upward trajectory can be attributed to his versatility. 

Warren is the ultimate offense weapon, similar to how San Francisco used fullback Kyle Juszczyk. He can play in-line, on the wing, in the slot, out wide, in the backfield, and even take the snap. 

As a rusher this year, Warren has 191 yards and four touchdowns in 23 attempts. He also leads all Power Four tight ends in receiving grades and yards after catch, according to Pro Football Focus.

Think of the Penn State tight end as the Swiss Army knife of the 2025 draft class. Warren is currently projected as the 28th best player on Pro Football Focus’ 2025 NFL Draft big board.

While the first round might seem rich for a tight end, 49ers’ head coach Kyle Shanahan loves a do-it-all type of player, and after asking Juszczyk to take a pay cut in the offseason, the team could be looking to replace the aging yet still effect, fullback. 

The 49ers, with three games remaining, are projected to have the 15th overall pick in the NFL Draft.

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Ahead of Friday’s practice, head coach Kyle Shanahan shared the team’s official injury report for Sunday’s game.

49ers Injury Report: Two Starters Ruled Out

The San Francisco 49ers have officially ruled out running back Isaac Guerendo and left tackle Trent Williams against the Dolphins.

Guerendo, already nursing a foot sprain, suffered a hamstring injury in last week’s loss vs. the Los Angeles Rams. The injury sidelined the rookie for the week’s practice, leading to his injury designation. Guerendo is the fourth 49ers’ running back to miss time this season with an injury.

The 49ers will likely start Patrick Taylor Jr. The former undrafted free agent signed with San Francisco this offseason and has seen action in five games.

Taylor, 50 yards and one touchdown in 14 attempts, will be relied on to fill a void left by four previous running backs.

San Francisco will mix in wide receiver Deebo Samuel in his wideback role. Although unsuccessful this season, expect to see the former All-Pro in the backfield a few times against Miami.

Former Buccaneers third-round pick Ke’Shawn Vaugh and recent waiver claim Israel Abanikanda could also see action.

Left tackle Trent Williams’ status should come as no surprise, especially after Shanahan alluded to his season being over.

“If he could get back to healthy, we’d play him, but it’s not like that right now,” said Shanahan when asked if Trent Williams is not going to play the rest of the season. “So it’s getting closer to being that way.”

Williams is still nursing an ankle and heel injury he suffered in the team’s Week 11 loss vs. the Seattle Seahawks on November 17th. According to Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle, Williams was seen using a knee scooter recently as last week.

Jaylon Moore is expected to start again in Williams’ absence.

Despite the negative update on Guerendo and Williams, the 49ers’ injury report did offer some good news.

Multiple Stars Questionable

Edge rusher Nick Bosa and linebacker Dre Greenlaw are officially questionable for Sunday.

Bosa is still battling a hip and oblique injury and did not practice on Wednesday and Thursday. He was able to rejoin the team in a limited capacity on Friday, leading to his injury designation.

Greenlaw, who is working way back from a torn Achilles, suffered a knee injury in his season debut last week. The injury kept Greenlaw sidelined for the remainder of the second half, but the linebacker is said to be “good to go” against the Dolphins.

Defensive lineman Robert Beal Jr injured his ankle in practice today and is also questionable.

The 49ers will look to keep their playoff hopes alive this Sunday despite needing many dominoes to fall their way.

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“We love Dre, and we’re interested in keeping him here for a long time. He’s a special player. We’ll let that take care of itself as time progresses here,” Lynch said.

Greenlaw, 27, has been a cornerstone of the 49ers’ defense since being selected in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Coming off an Achilles injury, Greenlaw has only played one game this season. Despite the one game, the defense’s improvement with him on the field is noticeable, something George Kittle highlighted after the linebacker’s 2024 debut.

“Dre Greenlaw is one of my favorite football players to ever watch,” tight end George Kittle said. “The energy that he plays with the violence that he plays with every single snap. And you can just tell the energy that he brings to the entire defense and the entire team is infectious. It’s unique. It’s one of a kind and he’s an absolute unicorn football player.”

Greenlaw is Must Re-Sign Player

During the past two seasons, Greenlaw’s performance has been nothing short of stellar. He recorded 247 tackles, two interceptions, and numerous game-changing plays, helping anchor a defense that has consistently ranked among the NFL’s best. His contributions were crucial in the 49ers’ runs to the 2021 and 2022 NFC Championship Game on top of the Super Bowl last season.

Greenlaw is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March, making this offseason pivotal for the 49ers’ efforts to retain one of their defensive leaders. His current two-year, $16.4 million extension, signed in 2022, expires at the end of the 2024 season, per Over the Cap. With a cap hit of $9.6 million this year, Greenlaw’s market value expects to rise significantly despite coming off serious injury.

The challenge for San Francisco lies in navigating the NFL’s salary cap. The team is already paying several high-profile contracts, including Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and Deebo Samuel. In an offseason where quarterback Brock Purdy anticipates signing a massive extension, finding the money to ensure Greenlaw’s return will require strategic negotiations.

49ers Fans Want Greenlaw Back

In a recent poll conducted by NBC Sports Bay Area, 64% of fans identified re-signing Greenlaw as the team’s top priority this offseason.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan echoed the fan’s desire to bring back Greenlaw in 2025 earlier this week.

“[Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga] are two of the better players I’ve been around. And two of the better players on our team, and two of the main reasons we’ve had the success here we’ve had. So hopefully we can do everything we can to keep them here because they are much examples of 49ers as anyone I can think of.”

Greenlaw has expressed his desire to remain with the 49ers but expects to hit the open market this offseason. His talents are sure to draw the interest of other teams, and his playmaking ability makes him an attractive option for any defense.

As the offseason unfolds, the focus will be on securing Greenlaw’s future in San Francisco. Both sides appear motivated to continue their relationship. While the details negotiations still need to take place, one thing is clear: the San Francisco 49ers view Dre Greenlaw as a vital part of their identity. For a team that prides itself on defense, re-signing Greenlaw is more than a priority. It’s a necessity.

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Most of it stems from a looming contract extension and Purdy’s worth in an ever-growing market. 2024 was supposed to be the year Purdy cemented himself as the face of the 49ers. His play should have given the organization and their fans an unshakeable confidence that Purdy is the solution to an empty Super Bowl cabinet since 1995.

Yet, the former Mr. Irrelevant is staring down his worst statistical season since being named starter. The 49ers are one week away from missing the playoffs, and rumors of his possible replacement are a dime a dozen.

On Thursday, Brock Purdy reflected on his season.

Chip on the Shoulder?

“I need to get better and back to playing with a chip on my shoulder like it was my first two years,” Purdy said when asked to assess his play. “Every game, every down trying to prove to myself that I’m the guy for this team and I’m capable of doing it. That’s sort of been the case this year in some moments. I got to learn from that.”

The 49ers’ lack of grit has been a problem this season. A roster loaded with talent, even with injuries, should not be 2-5 in one-score games. In previous seasons, the 49ers had enough to overcome a critical mistake.

A blown punt coverage would not turn into a game-winning touchdown given up by the defense. A Purdy interception would lead to San Francisco’s defense creating a turnover and the offense answering with a score. 2024 has been anything but that. There is no answer, and in Purdy’s case, it may stem from trying to play hero ball.

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San Francisco waived CB Ambry Thomas on December 17 after he spent the entirety of the season on the injured reserve. He was then signed by the Colts on December 18, but will not be signing with Indy according to ESPN reporter Adam Schefter.

“The Colts failed former 49ers CB Ambry Thomas on his physical today, one day after claiming him on waivers, saying his previous forearm injury isn’t completely healed,” Schefter wrote on X on December 19.”The 49ers cleared him over a month ago. ‘Ambry feels good and is ready to play,’ said Thomas’ agent Drew Rosenhaus. ‘My prediction is he will pass his next physical.’”

It’s a rare situation for players to fail physicals, but Thomas is coming off a major injury. What is puzzling is that Rosenhaus and Thomas clearly believe he’s ready to play.

At this point, it would not be surprising if Thomas stays a free agent until 2025. While the 2021 third-round pick has shown flashes of quality play, the current situation with his injury may ward off any other suitors.

Thomas Starts NFL Career in San Francisco

After finishing his college career at Michigan, the 49ers called Thomas’ name in the 2021 NFL draft. He immediately showed promise and received an extensive opportunity, partially thanks to the 49ers’ issues in the secondary that season.

Thomas started 5 games as a rookie, swatting 5 passes and grabbing an interception. He was also one of the starting corners for the Niners during their two playoff games.

2022 saw him take a significantly smaller role. Thomas did not start a single game, did not register a single pass defended, but did make 15 appearances.

But in 2023, Thomas returned to the starting lineup for a stretch. The 25-year-old started 6 games, pulling down an interception and making 7 PDs. He was a starter in the Divisional Round and in the NFC Championship, but did not get the nod in the 2024 Super Bowl.

His fractured forearm completely sidelined him in 2024, but there’s questions about his recovery. Schefter states that Thomas was cleared by San Francisco over a month ago. However, they never opened his practice window, eventually leading to his release.

49ers Star CB Could Leave in 2025

While Thomas looks for his next opportunity, veteran CB Charvarius Ward may be thinking about his too. The 2023 Pro Bowler will be a free agent in 2025, and recently spoke on his future.

“There’s been a dark cloud over us all season,” Ward said, according to The Athletic reporter Michael Silver. “This will be a good offseason for this team to regroup, refocus and try to rekindle the spark… I don’t know if I’m gonna be back, but I know this team is still gonna be great, with or without me.”

While Ward is clearly not ruling out an extended stay in San Francisco, he seems far from certain about the possibility. Ward has proven to be a high-end CB, but the 49ers may decide to go a new direction as Ward approaches his 8th NFL season.

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Also appearing on Wednesday’s injury report was running back Isaac Guerendo after suffering a hamstring injury in last week’s game against the Los Angeles Rams. The rookie played through a foot sprain in that game, but now faces uphill climb if he wants to suit up on Sunday.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Guerendo is unlikely to play this Sunday when the 49ers face the Miami Dolphins.

Depleted Running Back Room

The injury bug has hit the 49ers running back room the hardest this season. A pre-season injury to Christian McCaffrey cost him 10 weeks. The reigning offensive player of the year then played just four games before suffering a season-ending PCL injury. 

His backup, Jordan Mason, battled a shoulder injury through the middle of the season before suffering a season-ending ankle sprain in Week 14. And 2021 leading rusher Elijah Mitchell never sniffed the field this year after being placed on Injured Reserve with a hamstring injury in August.

The 49ers were hoping Guerendo could carry them to the end of the season and, by luck, the playoffs. But his body’s long history of injuries had other plans.

Guerendo has been plagued by lower-body ailments his entire football career. Dating back to his time as a freshman at Wisconsin, the fourth-round pick missed 23 games as a six-year college player. Because of his injuries, Guerendo never surpassed 135 carries in a season, failing to cement himself as a starter.

Still, the 49ers took a chance on his athleticism and speed. Guerendo’s 4.33 40-yard dash was the fastest of any running back participating at the NFL combine. His 99 athleticism score was also tops on the running back chart.

Guerendo has flashed both traits in minimal time throughout his rookie campaign. In 73 attempts, he is averaging 5.2 yards per carry and has totaled 381 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

Yet, with the team’s season hanging in the balance, Isaac Guerendo’s injury history reared its ugly head, leaving the team to start their fifth-string running back on Sunday.

Guerendo Replacements

If Guerendo cannot play against the Dolphins, the 49ers will likely start Patrick Taylor Jr. The former undrafted free agent signed with San Francisco this offseason and has seen action in five games.

Totaling 50 yards and one touchdown in 14 attempts, the 49ers will rely on Taylor Jr. to fill a void left by four previous running backs.

Former Buccaneers third-round pick Ke’Shawn Vaugh and recent waiver claim Israel Abanikanda could also see action.

Vaugh, who has spent most of the season on the practice squad, has just two carries for four yards this season — both coming in Week 14 vs. the Bears.

Abanikanda has yet to suit up this season. The former Jets’ fifth-round pick has 22 carries under in six career games.

The 49ers will look to thread the needle and keep their playoff hopes alive this Sunday when they face the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium.

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““Those are two of the better players I’ve been around, and two of the better players on our team, and two of the main reasons we’ve had the success here we’ve had. So hopefully we can do everything we can to keep them here because they are much examples of 49ers as anyone I can think of.”

Greenlaw and Hufanga are impending free agents the 49ers want back, but it may not be that simple.

Dre Greenlaw: 49ers’ Defensive Leader

Dre Greenlaw has been a cornerstone of the 49ers’ defense since being selected in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. His energy and physicality have made him one of the most reliable linebackers in the NFL.

Since his rookie season, Greenlaw has racked up 454 combined tackles, including 120 or more in consecutive seasons, and 18 tackles for loss. His ability to disrupt plays in pass coverage and the running game makes him indispensable.

Earlier this week, Greenlaw joined KNBR’s “Murph & Markus” and shared gratitude for his time with the 49ers but hinted at seeing what the open market has to offer.

“I’m not thinking about all of the free agency stuff. I’m just thinking about three games that I’ve got left with my teammates. At the end of the day, I’m probably going to be a free agent regardless. So I can’t, I’m not trying to rush the process of being a free agent.”

“I’ve got three games left to enjoy with Fred [Warner] and [Nick] Bosa and [Brock] Purdy and all those guys. When that time comes, I can’t stop it. I can’t do nothing about it, so all I can do is just enjoy these three games,” Greenlaw said.

Greenlaw may not be able to stop the inevitable. But he can set himself up for another big payday by finishing the season strong. His Achilles injury could bring his price tag down, but if he can prove he is healthy in the final month of the season, the six-year linebacker should see plenty of suitors in free agency.

KPIX reporter Matt Lively asked Greenlaw what he wanted for Christmas. The linebacker paused for about three seconds, his eyes moving around the room, then sent a clear message, “Some money.”

Talanoa Hufanga: The Playmaker

Similar to Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga is returning from a serious injury that could drive his value down. Yet his potential to be one of the best safeties in the NFL remains.

In his 2022 All-Pro season, Hufanga totaled 97 tackles, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles. His knack for being around the football is desired by every defense.

With him on the sideline in 2024, the 49ers have seen a steady decline in the playmaking department. San Francisco’s 17 takeaways rank 14th in the league. Their -4 turnover different ranks 21st. Contrast that with 2022 and 2023, where the team had 28-plus takeaways and a 10+ turnover differential in each season.

His coverage skills may leave room for improvement, but he adds an undeniable punch to the 49ers’ defense.

Both Greenlaw and Hufanga have been integral to the 49ers’ defensive identity. Their ability to make game-changing plays and relentless effort exemplify the team’s physical, high-energy style of football. Shanahan’s praise underscores how much the organization value their contributions on and off the field.

As the 49ers look ahead to the offseason, re-signing both players will be a critical step in maintaining the team’s status as one of the league’s premier defensive units. Their contracts are likely to command significant attention, but Shanahan’s comments suggest that the 49ers are preparing to make every effort keep Greenlaw and Hufanga in the Bay Area.

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“We obviously made a mistake,” said Shanahan before Wednesday’s practice. “I was with De’Vondre his rookie year in Atlanta, so I knew what he was capable of. Not that I was real close with the defensive guys, being the offensive coordinator there, but I know we liked him in that building. I know a lot of guys who coached him who have been good. And we obviously made a mistake.”

Campbell left the Packers disgruntled about his role during the offseason, something Shanahan was asked if the team looked into before signing him.

“It’s not something that we didn’t look into. We look into everything. You weigh the risk and reward of stuff. You weigh the situation that you have and what decision you can make in terms of the options. By no means was it our first option. But at the time, with what went down, we thought it was our best option. And it didn’t work out.”

De’Vondre Campbell Quits vs. Rams

Campbell, 31, signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the 49ers in March, brought in to add depth to the linebacker corps while Dre Greenlaw recovered from an injury. He had started 12 of the first 13 games this season, contributing 79 tackles. However, tensions surfaced last week after Greenlaw’s return relegated Campbell to a backup role.

During the third quarter of the 49ers’ loss to the Rams, injuries to Greenlaw and linebacker Dee Winters forced Shanahan to call on Campbell to step in. Instead, Campbell refused to enter the game and was sent to the locker room after general manager John Lynch confronted him on the sideline, according to Fox Sports insider Jay Glazer.

On Monday, edge rusher Nick Bosa said LB De’Vondre Campbell was complaining in the locker room before the game. He nearly stepped in at the time but didn’t want to “create more of a distraction.”

“I kind of saw the foreshadowing, and I definitely didn’t think it was going to result in that.”

Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir was asked his reaction to Campbell quitting and went scorched earth on his former teammate.

“I just lost all respect,” Lenoir said. “I’m a person that’s going 110% every play. If I am hurt and the guy behind me is not backing me up and can’t come in or don’t want to go in, I just feel like he’s a cancer to the team.”

The team announced Campbell’s suspension on Monday, citing conduct detrimental to the team.

Moving on Without Campbell

Since quitting on the 49ers, the NFL world has come out against Campbell. Former players like Ryan Clark and Mark Schlereth have advocated for the linebacker to never play in the league again, aligning with Campbell’s former teammates.

He is not welcome in most, if not any, NFL locker rooms. It is unknown if Campbell plans to play again next season or will retire. Nonetheless, the 49ers are focusing on their remaining games, starting with Sunday’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins.

Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw are expected to start at linebacker, with second-year player Dee Winters rotating in, similar to last week.

Suffice it to say, it is business as usual in San Francisco.

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With Brock Purdy’s rookie contract nearing its end, the team faces the prospect of negotiating what would be a substantial extension. Purdy’s market value is estimated at approximately $60 million, per Spotrac. That type of financial commitment could significantly impact the 49ers’ salary cap and their ability to maintain a competitive roster.

Grant Cohn of Sports Illustrated thinks the Niners would be wise to wait and see what’s going on in Atlanta with the Falcons and QB Kirk Cousins before committing to Purdy long term.

“The Falcons most likely would like to trade Cousins, but no one wants his awful contract, so Atlanta probably will have to release him and eat a ton of dead cap space,” Cohn wrote on December 18. ”

Which means the Falcons probably will pay for Cousins to play elsewhere next season. Enter the 49ers. They might want to sign another quarterback just in case Purdy decides to hold out. And the 49ers probably could sign Cousins for the league minimum considering the Falcons have to pay him $27.5 million in 2025.”

If Falcons Cut Kirk Cousins, 49ers Should Pounce

Cousins and 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan share a history from their time together in Washington. Shanahan, who served as the offensive coordinator, was instrumental in drafting Cousins in 2012. With Cousins already acquainted with Shanahan’s offensive philosophies, that could allow for a seamless integration into the 49ers’ scheme. Their mutual respect could also lure Cousins to the Bay Area.

Cousins’ current situation with the Falcons has become tenuous. After signing a four-year, $180 million contract in March of 2024, his performance has not met expectations, leading to his benching in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. With Penix clearly the future, Atlanta is bound to move on from Cousins in 2025. As Cohn noted, a trade is pretty much off the table, which means the Falcons will likely outright release him.

Per Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports, “releasing Cousins as a post-June 1 cut wouldn’t save the Falcons immediate cap space, but it wouldn’t lose them any, either. It would, however, clear the bloated $57 million cap charges he’s due in the final two seasons of his deal.”

If this happens, Cousins will likely sign somewhere on the cheap.

“It’s not out of the realm of possibilitiy that the 49ers could have both Purdy and Cousins on the roster next season while both get paid roughly $1 million for the year,” Cohn added. “Talk about a bargain. The 49ers would have one of the cheapest quarterback rooms in the league and it would be a big improvement over what they have now.”

Cousins Would Add Strong Veteran Presence to QBs Room, Push Brock Purdy

For a 49ers team with a mix of young talent and seasoned players, Cousins’ veteran presence could provide stability and mentorship. He has struggled to find his footing this season, however.

Over 14 games, Cousins completed 303 of his 453 pass attempts, netting a 66.9 completion percentage and accumulating 3,508 passing yards. He threw for 18 touchdowns but also tossed a league-high 16 interceptions. Notably, in his last four games, Cousins threw one TD pass and to eight INTs.

Cousins’ uncharacteristically sloppy performance this season has likely been influenced by his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon sustained in the 2023 season. After undergoing surgery, he dedicated the offseason to rehabilitation, and was ready to participate in training camp last summer. Despite his efforts, Cousins struggled to regain his pre-injury performance levels once the season started.

If he’s cut by Atlanta next offseason — and that’s most likely outcome right now — his history with Shanahan could make him an obvious potential addition to the team’s QBs room. He could push Purdy while also giving the Niners a more experienced signal-caller than it has had in a while.

We’ll see what happens, but Cousins is a name to watch next offseason for sure.

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San Francisco Stumbles in Miami

The 49ers were unable to complete their comeback on Sunday, falling to the Miami Dolphins in a 17-29 defeat. Despite a Deebo Samuel touchdown that earned them a 7-3 lead early in the second quarter, San Francisco spent the large majority of the game trailing.

The Niners had a chance to win the game late, trailing 22-17 with just over 2 minutes remaining. However, QB Brock Purdy tossed a non-competitive pass that was easily intercepted by Miami CB Kader Kohou. 

A 50-yard touchdown run from Dolphins RB Devon Achane shortly after put an exclamation point on Miami’s win. The Dolphins ran for 167 yards in the game, while San Francisco and RB Patrick Taylor struggled to get going with just 81 total rushing yards for the team.

A positive that the 49ers can take away was the performance from Deebo. After a controversial past two weeks and a year filled with struggles, Samuel racked up 121 total yards and a touchdown in the loss.

49ers QB Brock Purdy Evaluates Season

After a mixed bag this year, the 49ers and Brock Purdy are in a weird spot. He’s clearly a talented QB, but San Francisco has to figure out if and how they will pay him with a contract extension.

In 2024, Purdy has regressed in just about every statistical category. He recognized during a press conference on December 19.

“Yeah I think, there’s some plays out there that I’d love to have back and I wish I could’ve been better for my team and for myself. But at the same time, I feel like there’s been some growth in my game… I think I need to get better and get back to playing at the chip on my shoulder like it was my first two years of every game, every down trying to prove to myself that I’m the guy for this team and I’m capable of doing it,” Purdy explained.

In Purdy’s defense, the 49ers have faced a flurry of injuries this season. Names like RB Christian McCaffrey, WR Brandon Aiyuk and T Trent Williams have all missed significant time.

San Francisco Travels to South Beach

Date/Time: Sunday, December 22, 4:25 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: CBS
Odds: Dolphins -1.5 (-105) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: Dolphins lead 8-7
Last Meeting: 49ers won 33-17 on December 4, 2022

Week 15

49ers Fail to Reach Endzone in Must-Win Game

In a must-win game, San Francisco was unable to reach the endzone. The Niners lost 12-6 on Thursday night, dropping the team to 6-8 and putting the playoffs nearly out of reach.

While Los Angeles was unable to cross the goal line themselves, the 49ers offense and head coach Kyle Shanahan will have to shoulder the blame of the loss. QB Brock Purdy completed just 14 of 31 passes on a windy night in Glendale, California, throwing for 142 yards and an interception in the process.

The 49ers were unable to get the rushing attack going either, as RB Isaac Guerendo ran 16 times for 63 yards. The stat line that may be a major talking point will be WR Deebo Samuel’s 3 catches for 16 yards.

Purdy targeted Deebo 6 times, but was unable to connect half the time. Considering Samuel’s recent comments about getting the ball, the follow-up comments from this game ought to be something to watch.

49ers Face Rams in Major NFC West Clash

Date/Time: Thursday, December 12, 8:20 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: Amazon Prime
Odds: 49ers -2.5 (-118) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: 49ers lead 78-70-3
Last Meeting: Rams won 2 on 27-24 on September 22, 2024

Final Injury Designations for TNF

49ers

G Ben Bartch (ankle) – OUT
S Malik Mustapha (chest, shoulder) – OUT
T Trent Williams (ankle) – OUT
DE Nick Bosa (hip, oblique) – QUESTIONABLE
DT Khalil Davis (knee) – QUESTIONABLE
LB Dre Greenlaw (Achilles) – QUESTIONABLE
RB Isaac Guerendo (foot) – QUESTIONABLE

Rams

CB Cobie Durant (chest) – OUT
TE Tyler Higbee (knee) – OUT
TE Davis Allen (shoulder) – QUESTIONABLE
DE Tyler Davis (calf) – QUESTIONABLE
T Alaric Jackson (knee) – QUESTIONABLE
C Beaux Limmer (knee) – QUESTIONABLE
WR Demarcus Robinson (shoulder) – QUESTIONABLE
WR Jordan Whittington (shoulder) – QUESTIONABLE

Week 14

San Francisco RB Speaks on Recent Injury

While the 49ers were able to earn a comprehensive victory over Chicago, San Francisco faced another potential injury setback. RB Isaac Guerendo had to exit to the locker room after an impressive 2-touchdown performance.

49ers HC Kyle Shanahan said that the injury is likely a foot sprain, but that they were waiting for more info. When Guerendo spoke with the media, though, he downplayed the severity.

“Yes, everything is fine,” Guerendo said, according to 49ers Webzone. “They’re just being cautious. We have a quick turnaround this week, so we’re just making sure that we’re good to go.”

49ers Get Back on Track Against Bears

After back-to-back losses, San Francisco is finally back in the win column. The Niners beat the Chicago Bears 38-13 at Levi’s Stadium off the back of a masterclass performance by QB Brock Purdy.

The 49ers jumped on the Bears early as Purdy found WR Jauan Jennings twice for TDs and RB Isaac Guerendo added a score on a one-yard rush. After taking a 24-0 lead into halftime, San Francisco was able to coast in the second half.

It’s a much-needed win for the Niners, who will now prepare for a critical division clash against the Los Angeles Rams on December 12.

49ers Place Another Player on IR, Promote RB

After placing RBs Jordan Mason and Christian McCaffrey on the IR, the 49ers are now promoting RB Patrick Taylor Jr. to the active roster. Considering that there’s only 5 games left in the season, expect Taylor to be in the mix early and often.

Taylor has 7 total carries this year, going for 25 yards. He has played a significant amount of special teams snaps, playing 37% of the team’s special teams snaps during his 8 appearances.

Simultaneously, they also place DL Kevin Givens on the IR. To fill Taylor’s spot on the practice squad, San Francisco announced that Ke’Shawn Vaughn would be joining the team.

Week 13

Bills Take 49ers to Task on Sunday Night Football

It was always going to be a tall order for the 49ers. Playing a surging Bills team on the road in the snow is a massive challenge, but San Francisco did not come close to the task in a 35-10 defeat.

Buffalo got up early, as RBs Ray Davis and James Cook both scored in the first half. Bills QB Josh Allen then found Mack Hollins in the endzone through the air, giving the AFC East squad a 21-3 lead at halftime.

Allen then made one of the plays of the year after throwing to WR Amari Cooper and then receiving a lateral to run in for another score. 49ers RB Isaac Guerendo did score to make it 28-10, but Allen ran for his third score of the night to slam the door shut and seal the win.

49ers Travel to Buffalo for SNF

Date/Time: Sunday, December 1, 8:20 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: NBC
Odds: Bills -6.5 (-12o) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: Bills lead 7-6
Last Meeting: Bills won 34-24 on December 7, 2020

Deebo Downplays Shanahan’s ‘Hot Seat’

During a November 26 episode of his podcast Cleats and Convos with Deebo Samuel, the 49ers WR discussed that 49ers HC Kyle Shanahan was on the hot seat in San Francisco.

Deebo explained that it didn’t make sense to him, mostly considering his track record.

“You can’t show me a losing season that he’s had since I’ve been here,” Samuel said. “First year, Super Bowl. Second year, I mean COVID hit. Year after that, NFC Championship. Year after that, NFC Championship again. Last year, Super Bowl. So it’s like, why are you saying he’s in the hot seat? At the end of the day, we’re 5-6 right now, but we’ve got like six, seven games ahead.”

Deebo having faith in his coach and the season should be encouraging. But the 49ers WR will need to back up his words in order to make them matter.

We want to hear from YOU. Does Kyle Shanahan deserve to be on the hot seat?

Kyle Shanahan Details Plan for Purdy

After struggling mightily without Brock Purdy this past Sunday, the 49ers will be waiting with bated breath to see if their starting QB will play.

San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan isn’t providing anything concrete as of this update, but he did reveal that Purdy threw the ball on Monday and that they will be preparing him as he recovers from a shoulder injury.

“He threw lighter today to see if that rest helped and the rest did help him,” Shanahan said on November 25. “So we’ll see again, going through the same things we did last week. We’re going to let him rest all the way up to Wednesday. We’ll see how it feels on Wednesday, and then we’ll take the exact same course throughout the week and hopefully it responds better this week than it did last week with the rest.”

Purdy’s absence against the Green Bay Packers was the 24-year-old’s first start missed since taking over the job in 2022.

Week 12

San Francisco Takes 38-10 Defeat in Green Bay

Sunday’s 38-10 beatdown marked the second-biggest loss of 49ers HC Kyle Shanahan’s 8-year run with the team. While there have been plenty of ups during his time in charge, this may be the biggest low yet.

San Francisco struggled to get going early with backup QB Brandon Allen starting. They trailed 17-0 after the Packers scored two touchdowns and a field goal on their opening drive. The Niners did initially respond through Allen’s touchdown pass to TE George Kittle, but that ended up being the team’s sole touchdown in the game.

Any hope for a comeback was snuffed out when Allen and RB Christian McCaffrey fumbled on back-to-back offensive plays. The Packers took advantage with touchdowns after each error as the Niners’ defense could do little to stop Green Bay RB Josh Jacobs during an impressive 3-TD day.

Final Injury Designations for Packers Game

49ers

• QB Brock Purdy (shoulder) – Out
• CB Charvarius Ward (personal) – Out
• DL Nick Bosa (hip) – Out
• DL Kevin Givens (Groin) – Out
• WR Jacob Cowing (concussion) – Out
• LB Tatum Bethune (knee) – Out
• OL Jon Feliciano (knee) – Questionable
• T Trent Williams (ankle) – Questionable

Packers

• CB Jaire Alexander (knee) – Out
• LB Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) – Out
• DL Colby Wooden (shoulder) – Questionable

San Francisco Will Start QB Brandon Allen

After a season riddled with injuries, the 49ers still cannot catch a break after the team ruled out QB Brock Purdy and DE Nick Bosa. San Francisco also ruled out DL Kevin Givens, CB Charvarius Ward and WR Jacob Cowing.

Purdy has been dealing with a shoulder injury, while Bosa is battling a hip injury. Bosa being ruled out isn’t surprising, but Purdy practiced for the majority of the week before leaving practice on Thursday.

32-year-old veteran backup Brandon Allen will start in his place, three years removed from his last start. Allen has a 2-7 record as a starting QB.

How do the 49ers attack the Packers without Brock Purdy? Who would you be feeding in Green Bay?

49ers Return to Levi’s Stadium to Face Seahawks

Date/Time: Sunday, November 24 4:25 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: FOX
Odds: Packers -5.5 (-112) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: Packers lead 38-34-1
Last Meeting: 49ers won 24-21 on January 20, 2024

Week 11

San Francisco Take Massive Loss Against Seattle

It was one to forget for the 49ers as they fell to 5-5 after a 20-17 loss to the Seahawks. San Francisco led for the majority of the game, but failed to stop QB Geno Smith and Seattle’s offense late.

Brock Purdy scored the first touchdown of the game with a nice run to the endzone, while also throwing for a score to Jauan Jennings. However, San Francisco’s offense struggled for the most part the rest of the game.

Seattle got a final chance down 17-13 with 2:38 to play and proceeded to drive 80 yards to score. The Niners were consistently pressuring Smith, but he ran for big gains multiple times, including the go-ahead score from 13 yards out. San Francisco was left with just 12 seconds after the Seahawks QB reached the endzone.

49ers Return to Levi’s Stadium to Face Seahawks

Date/Time: Sunday, November 17 4:05 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: FOX
Odds: 49ers -6.5 (-112) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: Seahawks lead 30-23
Last Meeting: 49ers won 36-24 on October 10, 2024

Final Injury Designations for SEA-SF

49ers

• DL Kevin Givens (groin) – Out
• CB Charvarius Ward (personal) – Out
• P Mitch Wishnowsky (back) – Out
• CB Darrell Luter Jr. (pelvis) – Doubtful
• OL Aaron Banks (thigh) – Questionable
• DL Nick Bosa (hip) – Questionable
• OL Jon Feliciano (knee) – Questionable
• DL Yetur Gross-Matos (knee) – Questionable
• TE George Kittle (hamstring) – Questionable
• T Trent Williams (ankle) – Questionable

Seahawks

• TE Noah Fant (groin) – Out
• TE Brady Russell (foot) – Out
• C Connor Williams (NIR-Personal) – Out
• DE Leonard Williams (foot)
• LB Boye Mafe (knee)
• S Coby Bryant (illness)
• T Abraham Lucas (knee)
• WR DK Metcalf (knee)
• LB Dre’Mont Jones (shoulder)

Week 10

Niners Earn Smash-and-Grab Win Against Buccaneers

It wasn’t always pretty, but the 49ers won’t care. San Francisco beat the Buccaneers with a last-second field goal in Week 10, marking the return of K Jake Moody from injury with a walk-off win.

The 49ers initially led the game 10-0 after an impressive TD from WR Ricky Pearsall, but gave up that lead to eventually trail 17-13. However, another TD toss from QB Brock Purdy got the team up 20-17.

Bucs QB Baker Mayfield and Tampa then tied it up with less than a minute to play, failing to score a go-ahead TD after reaching the red zone. Just enough clock was left for Purdy to lead a follow-up drive, setting up Moody for his 44-yard make.

49ers Visit Tampa for Week 10 Showdown

Date/Time: Sunday, November 10 1:00 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: FOX
Odds: 49ers -6.5 (-114) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: 49ers lead 20-7
Last Meeting: 49ers won 27-14 on November 19, 2023

Shanahan Provides Positive Update for Christian McCaffrey

All eyes are on Christian McCaffrey after the 49ers RB returned to practice this week. McCaffrey has been recovering from Achilles injuries in both of his legs since August.

After the team’s Wednesday practice, things appear to be signaling towards his first regular season appearance on Sunday. According to ESPN reporter Adam Schefter, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said that McCaffrey experienced “no pain” during his practice with the team on Wednesday.

The 2023 Offensive Player of the Year is looking to make his first regular-season appearance of the 2024 season.

Should the 49ers activate McCaffrey for Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers? Or play it safe and bring him back in Week 11?

49ers Open Practice Window for Key OL

After missing the first half of the season, San Francisco may be getting a key player back in OL Jon Feliciano. The 49ers opened the practice window for the veteran guard on November 4.

Feliciano started 10 total games last year, including all three of the Niners’ playoff games. The 32-year-old has been dealing with a knee injury since early August, but has three weeks to be activated now that his practice window is open.

That being said, he may not return as a starter. G Dominick Puni has been a revelation at right guard despite being a rookie and will likely continue as the starter going forward.

Week 8

49ers Earn 4th Straight Win Over Cowboys

In a wild back-and-forth, the 49ers secured a 30-24 win over the Dallas Cowboys. After a sloppy first half from both sides that finished with a 10-6 lead for Dallas, San Francisco rebounded in a big way.

The 49ers exploded in the third quarter, scoring 21 points off the back of scores from RB Isaac Guerendo, TE George Kittle and QB Brock Purdy. At one point, San Francisco led 27-10.

However, the Cowboys had an offensive explosion themselves as WR CeeDee Lamb scored twice in the fourth quarter. Dallas was even able to get the ball back down 30-24, but a four-and-out from the 49ers defense on the Cowboys’ last offensive drive secured the win.

Shanahan Speaks on Pearsall

After getting more work than initially expected in Week 7 due to Brandon Aiyuk’s injury, 49ers WR Ricky Pearsall’s involvement ramped up further in Week 8. The former Florida Gator caught all four of his targets for 38 yards, while also taking a rushing attempt for a huge 39-yard gain.

After the contest, 49ers HC Kyle Shanahan was asked about Pearsall’s performance. To say the coach is encouraged is an understatement.

“You could see it in practice. You see it really each practice with Ricky, just because he has been so limited in his stuff. But he picks it up fast. His stamina gets better and better and he just, he’s got a real natural feel for the game and now it’s about just getting a feel within our offense. And I think it’s gotten better each week,” Shanahan said.

What are your thoughts? If you had to give Ricky Pearsall a letter grade after his first two performances, what would it be?

San Francisco Hosts Dallas in Latest Edition of Storied Rivalry

Date/Time: Sunday, October 27 7:20 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: NBC
Odds: 49ers -3.5 (-118) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: 49ers lead 20-19-1
Last Meeting: 49ers won 42-10 on October 8, 2023

The 49ers (3-4) are looking to rebound after a difficult defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs. Meanwhile, the Cowboys (3-3) are coming off their BYE week and a 42-9 dismantling at the hands of the Detroit Lions in Week 6.

San Francisco has won three straight games against Dallas, as the two sides have played four times since 2020.

The Niners are one game back of the Seattle Seahawks (4-3) in the NFC West. The Cowboys are sitting third in the NFC East and need a win to keep pace with the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles.

Week 7

San Francisco Falls to Kansas City, Loses Brandon Aiyuk

It was always going to be a tough game against the Chiefs, but the 49ers found it to be even more difficult than usual. That is primarily because the team’s top two receivers, Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, exited the game.

San Francisco lost 28-18 in a game that started close but finished with a fairly clear-cut victory for Kansas City. While a loss is hard to take, it’s losing even more players to injury that really stings.

Samuel entered Sunday with an illness that had not been disclosed previously. He suited up and was declared active, but essentially missed the contest as he did not feel good enough to go.

For Aiyuk, his knee injury looks to be a bad one. The 26-year-old was sandwiched between tacklers and had to be carted off. The severity is not currently clear, but the context speaks for itself.

Do the 49ers need to add a big-name receiver before the trade deadline? Or is it worth spending resources after the team has dropped to 3-4?

Purdy Throws 3+ Interceptions for Second Time in Career

49ers QB Brock Purdy is a certain bright spot for San Francisco, but he struggled mightily in Week 7. Not having his top three receivers is worth considering, but Purdy just did not have his best stuff.

Purdy completed 17 of 31 passes for 212 yards, but threw three interceptions in the process. The last two interceptions were back-breakers, arriving late in the 4th quarter when San Francisco still had a chance.

Purdy did not throw a touchdown pass, but did run for two touchdowns. It marks only the second time this season that the 49ers QB has not thrown for a TD.

49ers Meet Chiefs in 2024 Super Bowl Rematch

Date/Time: Sunday, October 20 4:25 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: FOX
Odds: 49ers -1.5 (-105) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: Chiefs lead 9-7
Last Meeting: Chiefs won 25-22 on February 11, 2024

As 49ers star Nick Bosa recently mentioned, San Francisco has not beaten the Chiefs with Kyle Shanahan at the helm. The 49ers have only squared off with Kansas City four times during his tenure, but twice clashed in the Super Bowl.

The Chiefs are undefeated, but the 49ers are favored by the Las Vegas books. What do you think? Do the 49ers and Shanahan finally get over their bogey team and beat Kansas City?

49ers Get Positive Injury Update

After a much-needed 36-24 win over the Seattle Seahawks, the 49ers had even more injury concerns.

For one, RB Jordan Mason was pulled from the game with a shoulder issue. K Matthew Wright also suffered a shoulder injury when making a tackle, which was the same way starting K Jake Moody suffered a high-ankle sprain.

However, both Mason and Wright are back on the field according to San Francisco Chronicle write Eric Branch.

“#49ers RB Jordan Mason (shoulder) was participating at the start of practice (warm-ups) in a non-contact jersey,” Branch wrote on X. “Did not see #49ers K Matthew Wright (shoulder) on field at start of practice. Jake Moody (ankle) was observing on the sideline. Moody is out of his walking boot.”

That is mostly good news for San Francisco, who is getting extra rest time after beating the Seahawks this past Thursday. They also opened up the practice window for rookie WR Ricky Pearsall, although don’t expect him to suit up against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.

Week 6

49ers Travel to Seattle for Critical TNF Showdown

Date/Time: Thursday, October 10 8:15 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: Amazon Prime
Odds: 49ers -3.5 (-102) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: Seahawks lead 30-22
Last Meeting: 49ers won 28-16 on December 10, 2023

San Francisco and Seahawks’ Final Injury Reports

49ers

• DT Jordan Elliott (knee) — OUT
• LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (calf) — OUT
• S Talanoa Hufanga (wrist) — OUT
• K Jake Moody (right ankle) — OUT
• WR Chris Conley (oblique) — QUESTIONABLE
• CB Charvarius Ward — QUESTIONABLE

Seahawks

• DT Byron Murphy II – (hamstring) OUT
• CB Riq Woolen – (ankle) OUT
• LB Uchenna Nwosu – (thigh) OUT
• LB Derick Hall – (foot) QUESTIONABLE
• LB Boye Mafe – (knee) QUESTIONABLE
• S Julian Love – (hamstring) QUESTIONABLE

Brayden Willis Gets Call-Up

With George Kittle leading the TEs and Eric Saubert and Jake Tonges backing things up, the 49ers promoting another TE to the active roster comes off as a small surprise. But when Hufanga was placed on the IR, San Francisco promoted TE Brayden Willis to the active roster.

Willis has made 8 appearances with San Francisco after the former Oklahoma Sooner was drafted in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL draft. He has played just 52 offensive snaps, primarily being used as a special teams contributor.

Willis had a relatively quiet college career at Oklahoma, before totaling 514 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns in his senior season.

Week 5

San Francisco Scores First Special Teams TD of the Year

After star linebacker Fred Warner took an interception to the house in Week 4 for the 49ers’ first defensive touchdown of the year, Deommodore Lenoir has scored the team’s first special teams touchdown.

During a field goal attempt by Arizona, DT Jordan Elliott got a paw on the ball. It then bounced perfectly for Lenoir, who scooped and scored with ease. Watch the video here.

It marked the first touchdown of Lenoir’s NFL career. To make things sweeter, Lenoir is celebrating his 25th birthday during the game.

49ers Welcome Cardinals in Week 5 for NFC West Matchup

Date/Time: Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: FOX
Odds: 49ers -7.5 (-105) (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: 49ers lead 36-29
Last Meeting: 49ers won 45-29 on December 17, 2023

49ers and Cardinals Game Status for Week 5

49ers
LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (calf) – Out
DE Yetur Gross-Matos (knee) – Out
WR Chris Conley (oblique) – Doubtful
WR Jacob Cowing (shoulder) – Questionable
DL Kalia Davis (knee) – Questionable
TE George Kittle (ribs) – Questionable
LB Fred Warner (ankle) – Questionable
CB Isaac Yiadom (thigh) – Questionable

Cardinals
G Isaiah Adams (thumb) – Out
CB Garrett Williams (groin) – Out
T Kelvin Beachum (hamstring) – Questionable
T Christian Jones (ankle) – Questionable
K Matt Prater (left knee) – Questionable
DT Khyiris Tonga (knee) – Questionable

Christian McCaffrey’s Injury Worse Than Initially Thought

Suffering an Achilles injury is already bad enough, but two simultaneously is brutal. Unfortunately for McCaffrey and the 49ers, it appears he has bilateral Achilles tendinitis.

NBC Sports reporter Matt Maiocco highlighted the news on September 30, which means that McCaffrey’s recovery may not be as simple as once thought. The latest update from San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan did not provide much clarity going forward, but he did explain that it is not a new injury.

“No, during the time he’s had it in both. I think it started in one, you overcompensate, it went to the other. But mainly one of them has just been bothering him, but he’s had it in both,” Shanahan said.

While it’s not an update anyone wants to hear, it is probably better that both Achilles are being addressed simultaneously. Ideally, the 49ers can help McCaffrey recover and prevent future issues with the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year’s health.

49ers Continue to Roll Behind Jordan Mason

When Christian McCaffrey’s Achilles issue became a clear issue at the start of the season, there was immense pressure on Jordan Mason to step up. Four games into the year, the former Georgia Tech Yellowjacket has answered the call and then some.

In the 30-13 win over the New England Patriots, Mason ran for 123 yards on four touches, scoring a touchdown in the process. He also added 37 yards on two receptions. No other player totaled 100+ yards in the game.

With the Patriots game behind San Francisco, Mason is on pace for a monstrous year. If he keeps up his current production, the 25-year-old would total 1900 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. While there is no question that the 49ers are a better team with McCaffrey, Mason is playing so well that it doesn’t feel like they miss C-Mac all that much.

What would you do in San Francisco’s situation? Should they look to get McCaffrey back as soon as possible, or should the 49ers encourage the RB to take his time while Mason leads the way? Sound off in the comments below.

Week 4

Brock Purdy Throws Three ‘Touchdowns’ on Single Drive

A flurry of penalties nearly denied 49ers QB Brock Purdy a touchdown pass during the 49ers’ contest against the Patriots. While up 13-0 on New England, San Francisco was looking to extend their lead.

Eventually, Purdy found TE George Kittle with an exceptional pass and catch. But before they finally reached the end zone, two different touchdowns were nullified by offensive penalties.

First, Purdy hit RB Jordan Mason for a 38-yard catch-and-run TD, but Kittle was penalized for holding. Three players later, Purdy made a fantastic throw to FB Kyle Juszczyk but a questionable illegal shift ruled it out. Still, the pass is worth a watch.

But the former Iowa State Cyclone would not be denied, eventually floating a ball to Kittle in the back corner of the end zone.

The TD came on 3rd and 10. Had Kittle not been able to bring it down, San Francisco would have had to kick a very frustrating field goal.

49ers and Patriots Clash in Week 4 Matchup

Date/Time: Sunday, 4:25 p.m. EDT
Broadcast: FOX
Odds: 49ers favored by -10.5 (per FanDuel Sportsbook)
All-Time Series: 49ers lead 9-5
Last Meeting: 49ers won 33-6 on October 25, 2020

Injury Report

49ers

DL Javon Hargrave – Out
T Trent Williams – Questionable
LB Dee Winters – Questionable
TE George Kittle – Questionable
QB Brock Purdy – Questionable
WR Jacob Cowing – Questionable
DL Jordan Elliott – Questionable
LB Curtis Robinson – Questionable
S Talanoa Hufanga – Questionable
CB Charvarius Ward – Questionable
WR Deebo Samuel Sr. – Questionable

Patriots

OT Vederian Lowe – Out
G Michael Jordan – Out
CB Alex Austin – Out
OT Caedan Wallace – Questionable
G Sidy Sow – Questionable
LB Anfernee Jennings – Questionable
CB Jonathan Jones – Questionable

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Running back Isaac Guerendo, who was already playing through a foot sprain, will not practice after suffering a hamstring injury in the loss vs. the Rams last week. Guerendo has served as the team’s starter for the last two weeks after season-ending injuries to Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason.

The rookie running back has carried the ball for 135 yards and two touchdowns in 31 attempts while hauling in six receptions for 68 yards as a receiver. Shanahan did not specify Guerendo’s status for this Sunday’s game but gave a discouraging update for left tackle Trent Williams’ return.

Trent Williams Season Over?

“If he could get back to healthy, we’d play him, but it’s not like that right now,” said Shanahan when asked if Trent Williams is not going to play the rest of the season. “So it’s getting closer to being that way.”

Williams is still nursing an ankle and heel injury he suffered in the team’s Week 11 loss vs. the Seattle Seahawks on November 17th. In Williams’ absence, San Francisco has given up 39 total pressures, per Pro Football Focus. The team has also seen their playoff odds drop below one percent. Without Williams this season, the 49ers have a 1-3 record.

The 49ers could very well see their playoff hopes end this week. If that happens, San Francisco is likely to shut Williams down for the rest of the season. The 36-year-old reworked his contract this offseason, something the 49ers want Williams healthy throughout.

Backup tackle Jaylon Moore, listed as limited today with a hip injury, has been filling in for Williams. In the last four weeks, Moore has proven more than capable of blocking quarterback Brock Purdy’s blindside. He has yet to give up a sack this season and has accounted for just seven pressures since filling in.

Moore has a pass block efficiency rating of 94.8 and an average PFF grade of 76.6. If Moore’s injury sidelines him, San Francisco will likely to turn Sebastian Gutierrez or Austen Pleasants.

Pleasants, who was signed to the team’s practice squad on Tuesday, has experience at guard and tackle but has yet to play this season. Meanwhile, Gutierrez has appeared in one game since entering the league in 2022. Both would be making their first NFL career start.

Complete Injury Report

Despite the update on Williams, there was a sense of optimism as several key players are making strides in their recovery from injuries.

Edge rusher Nick Bosa (hip, oblique), linebacker Dre Greenlaw (Achilles, knee), and backup offensive lineman Nick Zakelj will be limited in practice — a good early-week indicator of their status on Sunday.

Rookie safety Malik Mustapha provides another silver lining, as the fourth-round pick’s shoulder injury no longer appears on the injury report after he missed last week.

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Greenlaw just made his return from injury against the Los Angeles Rams. The veteran LB and the 49ers defense played well by limiting the Rams to just 12 points, albeit in a loss. But as the team moves forward, DE Nick Bosa and CB Deommodore Lenoir are both calling on San Francisco to extend Greenlaw.

“Got to get Dre locked in,” Bosa said per NBC Sports Bay Area.

Lenoir shared a similar message, saying, “I’m praying we resign him back, get our dog back. He looked well worth it.”

Greenlaw is in his sixth NFL season, albeit it will be a short one due to his time away with a ruptured Achilles. While Greenlaw is clearly important to the 49ers’ locker room and has a tremendous resume, his Achilles injury is the second major injury of his career.

Further, the 49ers have several other futures to determine. QB Brock Purdy could get an extension, and there are also other key players set to hit free agency in 2025.

Greenlaw’s Contract Situation

After impressing on his rookie deal, the Niners handed Greenlaw a two-year, $16.4 million deal at the start of the 2022 season. While that’s a solid payday, it was a shell of what could’ve been.

Greenlaw suffered a groin injury that required surgery in 2021, which saw him return after a nine-week IR stint and then re-injure the groin again. While San Francisco was still determined to re-sign him at the time, it meant that the former Arkansas Razorback missed out on millions of dollars.

As the 2025 offseason approaches, Greenlaw could be entering a similar situation. The Niners clearly value him, but the timing of the Achilles injury means that they can’t really rationalize a long-term, high-pay deal.

Instead, San Francisco could consider another two-year deal. That would allow Greenlaw to stick around, but also allow the 49ers an out should Greenlaw struggle going forward.

The final three games of the season will likely play a significant role in that decision. If Greenlaw shows that he hasn’t lost a step, then San Francisco will probably feel better about re-signing the veteran LB to a new deal.

49ers Alum Believes Team Will Pay Purdy

The numbers floating around Purdy’s next deal may seem lofty to some, but not to NFL legend Richard Sherman. The former 49ers corner spoke on the topic on his podcast, stating that Purdy’s success in San Francisco warrants a top deal.

“When you’re negotiating with a team, unless you’re willing to move on from Brock Purdy, they’re going to be paying him $50-plus million,” Sherman said on a December 17 episode. “This guy has been to an NFC Championship and a Super Bowl. He played incredibly well in the postseason.”

Sherman also asserted that there are 5 quarterbacks hitting the $50 million mark that haven’t had the success Purdy has had. While that may be true, San Francisco still has to cover their bases and make sure they don’t end up on the wrong side of a mega contract.

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NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger threw a massive curveball into the discussion by suggesting replacing Purdy with his former backup.

“I’d say flip him for Sam Darnold right now,” Baldinger said before citing the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback’s superior size and athleticism. Baldinger would later add that the two quarterbacks could compete for the starting job in the summer, contract permitting.

The former 12-year pro’s comments led to a variety of responses, including those who believe Darnold’s physical tools and potentially cheaper contract are a future worth examining. The other collective response was resounding hell no.

While fans debated Baldinger’s proposal, a former MVP and Super Bowl champion was asked to chime in.

Former MVP’s Response to Baldinger

Former MVP and Super Bowl champion Kurt Warner joined Willard & Dibs on 95.7 the game to discuss Brock Purdy’s ceiling. The conversation quickly turned to a potential reunion with Sam Darnold and the why the former first-round pick is finally breaking out.

Before answering, Warner took the time to respond to Baldinger’s comments and recollects on a similar situation he had while quarterback the then St. Louis Rams.

“The first thing is it just makes me laugh,” Warner said scoffingly. “What about the last two years with Brock Purdy? I remember I kind of went through [the same thing ] with St. Louis too. You know, [we] went to a couple of Super Bowls, won a couple of MVPs, and then we had a down year after our second Super Bowl. And you know, people were asking, ‘Well, are you going to change quarterbacks?'”

Warner continues by recalling then Rams’ head coach Mike Martz’ response to the media after asking about a quarterback change.

“I remember Mike Martz at one point in the season going, ‘Are you guys part of the amnesia crowd? Have you forgotten what happened in the last three years and how good Kurt was? We’re not just going to panic because we’ve had a bad stretch here.’ It’s almost like that’s what we’re doing in San Francisco. Let’s forget about these last two years cause this year hasn’t been as good.”

Warner goes onto point out Darnold’s career inconsistencies and questions his capabilities to string together consecutive successful seasons.

Comparing Darnold and Purdy’s Success

“Let’s forget about everything else he’s done in the league because he’s been wildly inconsistent, and although he’s shown glimpses, he’s never been able to put it together.” Warner said. “And now he’s having this incredible year in Minnesota and we’re all ready to say let’s flop him and take this guy because he’s having a great year even though he’s never shown the ability to put two great years together back to back.”

Warner then calls out recency bias amongst NFL circles referencing Brock Purdy’s achievements as the 49ers starter the last two seasons.

“He’s shown the consistency, in my own opinion, to say ‘I know who Brock Purdy is.” If it was just Brock Purdy [struggling] this year and not a whole bunch of other factors, maybe that would give me a little bit more pause on who I think he is as a quarterback. But seeing when the situation was good and how [The 49ers] expected it to be, he was always [playing] at a high level. He was playing really, really well from the time he became a starter up until this year. That to me is a pretty good body of work to say, ‘I know who Brock Purdy is.” And I’ve seen glimpses of [Purdy’s high level of play] this year.”

While we wait to see if the San Francisco 49ers pay Brock Purdy this offseason, the final three games on their schedule may go a long way to narrowing down his value.. As of now, predictions have Purdy signing for north of $60 million per season and re-setting the quarterback market.

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Former NFL cornerback and current Amazon Prime analyst Richard Sherman threw his two cents into the growing conversation surrounding Purdy’s potential contract extension during a recent episode of his podcast.

Sherman tackled the delicate balance between fans’ expectations and the harsh realities of NFL business.

What is Brock Purdy’s Worth?

“What does Brock Purdy deserve?” Sherman began, referring to a recent Bay Area poll gauging fan opinion about Purdy’s worth.

The poll revealed a divided opinion with 38% of respondents believing Purdy deserved a salary between $20 million and $30 million annually, while 29% estimated his value between $31 million and $40 million.

While Sherman acknowledged the fans’ logic, he argued the NFL’s quarterback market suggest a much higher price tag for Purdy.

“You guys are speaking like fans, and businesses don’t quite work that way,” Sherman said. “I’m sure you’re not happy with his performance right now, but I can name five quarterbacks making over $50 million per season who haven’t come close to winning anything.”

Sherman points to Purdy’s postseason success to underline the quarterback’s value. In just two season as starter, Purdy led the 49ers to a NFC Championship appearance and Super Bowl appearance. By comparison, Sherman highlights the struggles of other high-profile quarterbacks, including Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott and Green Bay Packers’ Jordan Love, who have faced criticism for their playoff shortcomings.

“When you’re negotiating with a team, unless you’re willing to move on from Brock Purdy, they’re going to be paying him $50-plus million,” Sherman asserted. “This guy has been to an NFC Championship and a Super Bowl. He played incredibly well in the postseason.”

Sherman’s comments come in the amidst of a rough stretch for Purdy. With their season on line, Purdy has failed to throw a touchdown in two of the 49ers’ last three games. Purdy’s struggles have sparked questions about his long-term potential and value as the 49ers’ franchise quarterback.

Still, Sherman argues that Purdy’s body of work over his young career justifies a top of the line contract this offseason.

Purdy Will Get Paid

“Brock Purdy is going to get his money,” said Sherman. “I think he has done a great job over the majority of his career. You can say what you want about it, but that’s how the National Football League goes ladies, and gentlemen. I’m sorry.”

Sherman’s comments are basically summed by right place, right time for Brock Purdy.

For now, the debate rages on regarding Brock Purdy’s worth. While some fans may so no to a record-breaking extension, only the 49ers will decide what Purdy’s true value is. And whether fans want to admit it or not, the current quarterback market dictates Purdy to a receive a contract upwards of $50 million this offseason.

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Acquiring Cousins would not come without challenges. The Falcons releasing Cousins is off the table due to salary cap ramifications, but trading him is an option. A post-June 1st trade would save the Falcons $15 million, but the 49ers would be on the hook for $27.5 million, per Over the Cap. The 49ers could restructure Cousins’ contract to lower his cap hit, but it is still a steep price for a soon-to-be 37-year-old quarterback. Keep in mind that a Purdy extension would likely raise his salary cap hit to an estimated $10 million.

With the economics out of the way, there are three reasons why the 49ers should consider trading for Kirk Cousins.

Kirk Cousins’ Connection to Shanahan

Let’s get the most common and overused reason for Shanahan and Cousins to join forces again.

Shanahan advocated for Washington to draft Cousins in 2012. After being hired by San Francisco, Shanahan planned to sign Cousins in the 2018 free-agency period. Shanahan even tried to trade the number three overall pick in 2017 for Cousins. Alas, they traded for Jimmy Garoppolo instead, and the media has been trying to reconnect the two ever since.

Cousins’ knowledge of Shanahan’s system does make him an intriguing fit. Whether a starter or backup, Cousins would be able to execute the offense to Shanahan’s liking, making any transition seamless.

Unfortunately, father time may be catching up to Cousins. A year removed from a torn Achilles, Cousins is posting his worst season since 2016. His 16 interceptions lead the NFL, and in the last five games, Cousins has thrown one touchdown and nine interceptions.

Insurance for Brock Purdy

Brock Purdy will be on the 49ers in 2025 and expects to be the starter. He is 25 years old and is one season removed from leading San Francisco to the Super Bowl and being a top-five MVP finalist. Working under that obvious assumption, Cousins would give San Francisco valuable insurance behind Purdy in the case of injury.

The team learned the hard way in 2022 and 2023 how critical quarterback depth is, particularly after injuries to Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo.

Another example is the team’s Week 12 loss against the Packers. Purdy’s shoulder injury kept him out of a key road game against an NFC opponent that had playoff implications. While San Francisco may not have won with Cousins under center, one would have to assume he could lead the 49ers to more than ten points.

Cousins could also slide into a mentorship role for Purdy. Kyle Shanahan has long applauded Cousins for his grasp of his offense. Maybe the thirteen-year veteran can aid Purdy on his journey to become a better-starting quarterback.

Plus, the 49ers’ current backup quarterbacks, Brandon Allen and Joshua Dobbs, are impending free agents. If anything, San Francisco will need a backup quarterback in 2025, and Cousins would be the best on the market, depending on the asking price.

History of Success

If the 49ers have any doubts about Purdy’s longevity, acquiring Cousins could prove valuable. Despite his struggles in primetime and playoff games, Cousins has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks of the last decade. He is a four-time pro bowler and has thrown for 4,000 yards six times. Plus, his ability to pass consistently over the middle of the field makes him capable of operating Shanahan’s system.

For an offense loaded with talent, Cousins would provide a steady, veteran presence capable of maximizing the team’s potential — or at least not cratering it. Players like Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Brandon Aiyuk would likely thrive with a quarterback of Cousins’ caliber distributing the ball.

Kirk Cousins’ days as a starter may be behind him. But as a backup on a restructured contract, he still has value left to give. There is no reason, outside of money, why the 49ers should not at least consider adding Cousins to the roster.

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Thomas, who has been recovering from a broken forearm, was placed on injured reserve in August. With the team nearing the end of the season and juggling roster needs, the decision to waive the 24-year-old cornerback came as part of a move to manage depth at the position.

Thomas entered the NFL out of Michigan, where his athleticism and ball skills stood out during his collegiate career. Drafted 102nd overall, Thomas was viewed as a developmental player with significant upside, which the 49ers hoped would lead to a consistent starting role.

Thomas’ most notable contribution came during his rookie campaign in 2021.

Thomas’ Biggest Contribution to 49ers

In the final game of the regular season, Thomas delivered a critical overtime interception against the Los Angeles Rams, sealing a 27-24 victory for San Francisco. That win punched the 49ers’ ticket to the playoffs, where they went on to advance to the NFC Championship Game.

Thomas’ performance during the second half of the 2021 season provided a glimmer of promise after a challenging start to his career. Initially struggling with coverage assignments and adjusting to the speed of NFL receivers, he made strides as the season progressed, earning more snaps in the team’s secondary.

However, Thomas was unable to maintain that upward trajectory. Coordinator changes and injuries limited his availability over the next two seasons, forcing him to miss significant portions of both 2022 and 2023. When on the field, inconsistency and a crowded cornerback room made it difficult for Thomas to reclaim a regular role in San Francisco’s defense.

The 49ers have leaned heavily on a mix of veterans and younger talent at cornerback this season, including Charvarius Ward, Deommodore Lenoir, Isaac Yiadom, and 2024 second-round pick Renardo Green. With their playoff chances under one percent, San Francisco’s coaching staff likely viewed Thomas as the odd man out in an already deep position group heading into 2025.

Despite his release, Thomas’ potential and prior flashes of playmaking ability expect to attract interest from other teams around the league looking to bolster their secondary heading into the offseason, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

As a young player with playoff experience, Thomas could still carve out a role elsewhere in the NFL if he can stay healthy.

For now, the 49ers will move forward without the former Michigan standout as they start the process of rebuilding the roster ahead of a pivotal 2025 offseason.

Other Roster Moves

The 49ers have signed offensive lineman Austen Pleasants and linebacker Chandler Wooten to the practice squad.

Pleasants, who has played two games in his four year career, adds much needed tackle depth as Trent Williams and Jaylon Moore battle injuries. In three games with the Panthers this season, Wooten has totaled seven tackles. He projects to be a camp body at linebacker after De’Vondre Campbell’s season-ending suspension.

The team also placed 2024 undrafted free agent tight end Mason Pline on the practice squad injured reserve list.

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However, it’s not because of his play. There has been plenty of criticism thrown toward Deebo this season, especially after his recent dud performance against the Los Angeles Rams. But SI.com writer Grant Cohn believes that while the 49ers may want to move on from Samuel, his contract has their hands tied.

“The 49ers also could release him with a post -June-1 designation, but that would just mean they would take an $11 million dead cap hit in 2025 and a $20 million dead cap hit in 2026. Not a great option,” Cohn wrote on December 17. “The only way to make Samuel cheaper for 2025 is to give him an extension, as terrible as that may sound. An extension would allow the 49ers to lower Samuel’s cap number significantly next season and more easily release him in 2026.”

Essentially, the Niners have committed a ton of money to Deebo and there’s no real way to escape that. What Cohn suggests would keep him around for another year, get something out of that money rather than burning it, and then set themselves up to part ways before the 2026 season.

Deebo’s Contract Situation

Entering the 2022 season, San Francisco signed Samuel to a three-year, $71.5 million deal. The former South Carolina Gamecock was coming off an All-Pro season and was the team’s top receiver at the time.

But with extensions due for players like WR Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers restructured his deal earlier this season. San Francisco was able to move around significant amounts of money thanks to void years, which spread about $32.75 million over 2026 through 2029.

As things stand, the Niners will be paying Deebo for 4 seasons after his current deal runs out. That’s not unheard of, but an extension would be able to help reallocate that money and let them get out of salary cap hits for a player who’s not even around.

Of course, Samuel could always bounce back too in 2025. That being said, it’s hard to be optimistic after what fans have had to watch this season.

49ers Legend Calls Out Samuel

The latest criticism thrown Deebo’s way came from one of the all-time greats: Jerry Rice. The Niners legend and NFL Hall of Famer appeared on 95.7 The Game on December 16.

Rice had plenty to say about the situation that was positive and encouraging to Samuel, but the base message was clear: players can’t complain about not getting the ball and then have a drop in a big situation.

“That ball that he dropped, after you complain about not getting that many touches, you cannot drop the football. Because everybody is going to get down on you and they’re going to come after you,” Rice said.

It’s a fair take. Samuel asked for the ball, and the 49ers answered. He was targeted 7 times, made only 3 catches for 16 yards. He also only gained 3 yards on 2 carries.

If Samuel can’t be a reliable catch-and-run receiver or an effective rushing option, there’s not much he will bring to the table otherwise.

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That is where San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback Brock Purdy currently finds himself. Three weeks from contract extension eligibility, the debate about Purdy’s worth has taken over the media landscape.

From radio to podcasts, television debate shows, or the local fan base, everyone has an opinion on Purdy’s next contract. Some, like NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger, believe the 49ers should re-acquire Sam Darnold and forgo extending Purdy this season.

Although Baldinger is not alone in his opinion, former NFL player and current CBS Sports broadcaster Ross Tucker shares a different viewpoint.

To Extend Or Not Extend

While a guest on 95.7 the Game, Tucker explains why Purdy’s situation is similar to a previous $212 million quarterback.

“I would try to sign Brock Purdy to an extension, the interesting thing is the number…I felt the same way about Tua [Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins] last year. I would love to see what Purdy could get on the open market because I don’t know if there’s other teams that’d pay him $50 million [per year]. Purdy is in the Tua category.”

Tucker is right to wonder how many teams would pay Brock Purdy a near-record-breaking contract. Purdy does not possess elite physical traits, which could drop his value if he somehow hit the open market.

The comparison to Tagovailoa is interesting as well. Forget the concussion history. What other team was going to offer the Miami quarterback $53 million per year? The Dolphins, and only the Dolphins, may have been the market for Tagovailoa. Now insert Purdy in Tagovailoa’s spot.

Obviously, free agent and draft classes can dictate the market. But Purdy is a 25-year-old quarterback coming off a down year after consecutive NFC Championship game appearances and a Super Bowl loss. Yet, which quarterback-needy teams are trying to sign Brock Purdy if he was on the open market?

Teams are looking for the next Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson and do not usually risk the future of the franchise on a player like Purdy.

That thought led Tucker to share the contract he would offer Purdy.

“I’m offering Brock Purdy a deal that changes his life forever with $50 million per year and over $100 million fully guaranteed. If he says ‘I want to reset the market,’ then I say, that’s your decision.”

While Tucker’s offer seems generous, it is noticeably lower than Tagovailoa’s $53 million per year contract that included $167 million guaranteed, according to Spotrac. Plus, the idea of a take-it-or-leave style offer could backfire on San Francisco unless they have a backup plan.

The 49ers like to play hardball during contract negotiations. Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk signed less than two weeks before the 2024 season opener, and edge rusher Nick Bosa inked a new deal four days before the team’s Week 1 matchup vs. the Steelers last year. 

Both players had noticeable rust after signing their contracts due to long holdouts. Surely something the 49ers should look to avoid with their franchise quarterback in a win-now window.

It remains to be seen what the 49ers will do with Brock Purdy, but if Tucker has his way, it will be a fruitful offseason for the quarterback.

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It is no secret that the 49ers have been through hell in 2024. Two players have lost children, Ricky Pearsall was shot before Week 1, and 43 games have been missed by Pro Bowl players. It has been a mess on and off the field. But through adversity, a franchise quarterback is expected to be the tide that lifts all boats. Be the difference in clutch games and find a way to push the team forward.

That said, Purdy’s performance in a Thursday Night Football loss vs. the Rams has zapped the hype around possibly locking up a franchise quarterback. It even led an NFL Network analyst to offer up a potential replacement.

Replacing Brock Purdy

Against the Rams, Purdy finished with 45 percent completion rate, 142 yards, and one interception. Outside of a three-interception outing against the Chiefs in Week 7, Purdy put together his worst game this season. His 45.4 rating and 20.3 QBR are second-lowest in 2024. And despite being the NFL’s most efficient deep ball thrower last season, Purdy went 0-7 with one interception on passes 20 or more yards.

The uncharacteristic inefficiencies led to NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger expressing his disappointment with Purdy’s performance.

“I was the biggest Brock Purdy fan and defender for three years.” said Baldinger as a guest on 95.7 the Game’s ‘The Morning Roast.’ “But [the 49ers] needed to make one play against the Rams, and they couldn’t even make one play.

Balding has always been a staunch supporter of Purdy. After a Week 6 win over Seattle, Baldinger said he thought Purdy’s ability to make plays with his legs “was very, very much like Mahomes.”

Fast Forward nine weeks, when asked what his advice would be to 49ers’ general manager John Lynch if Purdy demands a top-of-the-line contract, Baldinger offered up a potential replacement.

“I’d say flip him for Sam Darnold right now.”

Baldinger points to Darnold’s time backing up Purdy in 2023 as a learning experience for the former USC product and the jumping-off point for his 2024 breakout season.

“[Darnold] learned a first-class franchise, game-planning, and how to build the team. He saw that for the first time in his life. Now, you have Kevin O’Connell, who is an elite play-caller with a very, very good offense that has a real sound to it. And he’s flourishing.”

Baldinger continues by stating the Vikings do not have to be committed to Darnold long-term after drafting JJ McCarthy in the first round. A decision that could open the door for a reunion with the 49ers.

The Decision: Darnold or Purdy

Sam Darnold is an impending free agent after signing a one-year, $10 million deal this offseason, but to hedge their bets, the Vikings could franchise tag Darnold. The move would give Minnesota insurance in case McCarthy suffers a setback in his recovery. Franchise tagging Darnold would also force San Francisco to offer them trade compensation to re-acquire the quarterback.

Darnold is in the middle of a career year and outperforming Purdy in almost every metric. Darnold has more passing yards, a higher completion percentage, nearly double the touchdowns, and just two more interceptions.

Putting it simply, Darnold has been better than Purdy in 2024. Now again, is that related to the 49ers’ plethora of injuries and off-the-field issues, or has Purdy plateaued?

Assuming the former, would the 49ers be open to paying two quarterbacks? The 49ers could theoretically re-acquire Darnold, sign to a cheaper contract than Purdy, and force the incumbent starter to play out the final year of his contract. But would head coach Kyle Shanahan invite another quarterback controversy into the building?

It would be a tough sell to open a competition between Purdy, who has already taken the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance, and Darnold, a quarterback Purdy already beat out in 2023 for the starting job.

The next three weeks will provide more clarity on Purdy’s worth. The 49ers could sign him to a long-term extension. They could also draft or sign competition for him. They could even make him play out his contract.

As of now, San Francisco has only indicated they are committed to Brock Purdy as their franchise quarterback.

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Purdy has been solid under center since taking the reins as the team’s starter late in the 2022 season. His affordable rookie contract has given the 49ers financial flexibility to strengthen other areas of the team, contributing to their competitive edge. But as his contract nears expiration, the organization faces a pivotal choice: commit to Purdy as their franchise QB or explore alternative options.

Citing his potential fit in head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense, Matt Holder of Bleacher Report thinks the Niners should draft Heisman finalist Dillon Gabriel, who is fresh from a standout season leading the Oregon Ducks. “Debates have already begun on whether Brock Purdy is worth a $55 to $60 million per year contract as his deal expires at the end of the 2025 campaign,” Holder wrote on December 16, adding:

“While that chatter will continue for several months, what if Shanahan and John Lynch opt to go a different route and use a mid-round pick on someone who fits their offense well as a potential heir apparent?”

Sh0uld San Francisco 49ers Draft Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel to Push Brock Purdy?

Even if the Niners do agree to an extension with Purdy, Holder thinks it would be a good idea to draft a QB, noting: “Joshua Dobbs and Brandon Allen are impending free agents, so the offense will need a backup quarterback next season anyway, and the Heisman Trophy finalist’s short to intermediate accuracy and mobility could thrive in Shanahan’s system.”

In 13 games with the Ducks this season, Gabriel completed 297 of 406 passes, netting a 73.2% completion rate, which ranks second nationally. That type of accuracy aligns perfectly with Shanahan’s preference for quarterbacks who can stretch defenses and operate with precision in play-action-heavy systems.

The 6-foot, 200-pound Gabriel’s size may raise questions, but his agility and pocket presence mitigate those concerns. In Oregon’s offensive system, he routinely demonstrated the ability to evade pressure and deliver throws on the run. His mobility could add another layer to the 49ers offense.

While Purdy has been effective, there are questions about his ceiling as a franchise quarterback, and depth at the position is critical in today’s NFL. Gabriel could have tremendous value, particularly if concerns about his physical attributes push him to the mid-rounds in the draft.

His football IQ and ability to command an offense are undeniable, though, and his presence in the quarterback room would not only create healthy competition but also provide the 49ers with insurance at the game’s most important position.

Should 49ers Extend Brock Purdy?

Purdy’s familiarity with Shanahan’s system and his leadership qualities are undeniable assets. Securing Purdy long-term would ensure continuity and stability, allowing the team to build upon its existing offensive framework.

Additionally, Purdy’s rapport with key offensive players such as wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and tight end George Kittle underscores the potential for sustained offensive productivity. Maintaining this synergy could be crucial for the 49ers’ aspirations in the highly competitive NFC West.

Conversely, it’s fair to wonder whether if Purdy is the guy who can lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl victory. He’s 4-2 in postseason play, but 0-1 in the big game, as the Niners fell to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 58. His completion percentage this season is also a career low (65%), which is still solid.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport said on December 8 that the 49ers plan on securing Purdy long term. Still, as Holder noted, it may not be a bad idea to add another young signal-caller in the upcoming draft as an insurance policy of sorts.

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