The San Francisco 49ers are already getting down to business, trimming their massive 90-man roster to the final 53. But for those guys who don’t quite make the cut? There’s still a crucial role to play, especially as the Niners gear up for a weird Week 1 showdown against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, where they’re currently sitting as 3.5-point underdogs over at FanDuel Sportsbook.
The Practice Squad Grind Is Real
Don’t sleep on the practice squad, folks. This isn’t just a holding pen; these are the unsung heroes who travel with the team, run the scout schemes, and put in the grind during practice. They might not suit up on game day, but their work is absolutely critical for getting the 49ers ready for their Week 1 brawl. An NFL practice squad holds 17 players, giving the 49ers a ton of flexibility right now with all spots available. This setup means they can develop young talent all season long *and* have absolute backups ready to go when injuries inevitably hit.
Of those 17, one spot is specifically for an NFL International Player Pathway Program participant, and Isaac Alarcon is expected to fill that role after his release. Six spots are wide open for veterans, with no cap on their experience, meaning the 49ers can bring in some seasoned pros if they need to. The remaining 10 spots? Those are for rookies or second-year players, giving the Niners a pipeline for future talent. Plus, they get to designate four “protected” players, which stops other teams from poaching them. And if they need a quick boost, two players can get promoted to the active roster for one week. If those guys play a second consecutive week, then the 49ers have to offer them a one-year deal. It’s a strategic chess match, trying to keep talent close without committing too much too soon.
Australia Bound: Who’s On The Plane?
This Week 1 game against the Rams in Melbourne is already shaping up to be a test. Playing overseas means no usual “invasion” of 49ers fans taking over the designated home team’s field, which levels the playing field significantly. Matt Maiocco hinted at a few names who might be on that plane for Australia this Wednesday, possibly on “handshake deals” after being released or even making the initial 53-man roster. We’re talking about running back Khalil Herbert, wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge, and edge rusher Ogbo Okoronkwo. These guys, whether on the active roster or the practice squad, are key pieces for how the 49ers plan to prepare for what’s sure to be a tough opener.
The 49ers are heading into their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, as 3.5-point underdogs. The practice squad will be crucial for their preparation. It’ll be interesting to see who officially fills out those 17 spots and how those crucial players impact the Niners’ ability to overcome the Rams on foreign soil.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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