The San Francisco 49ers’ inactive list for their home opener dropped, and while it looks pretty familiar to last week’s, the big news is who *isn’t* on it: Kaelon Black and Eddy Pineiro are officially suiting up! This is a massive boost for the Niners, especially after both players were battling health issues this past week.
Back From the Brink: Black and Pineiro Are Ready to Roll
Dude, serious props to Kaelon Black and Eddy Pineiro for pushing through. Black was on the injury report all week with a groin issue after being added on Thursday, but he’s good to go for game day. Coach Kyle Shanahan played it smart, saying they were “playing it safe” with his rookie running back, and that caution clearly paid off. Pineiro, who missed *all week* battling an illness, is kicking in the home opener. You gotta be feeling good if you’re a Niners fan knowing they didn’t even sign one of the two kickers they tried out on Saturday. That’s a huge vote of confidence in Pineiro’s health and ability, right? Both were expected to suit up, and it’s a relief to see that hold true.
The Rookie Puzzle: Who’s Out, and What Does It Mean?
So, while Black and Pineiro are back, the inactive list has some familiar faces: QB Kurtis Rourke (serving as the emergency QB), LB Tatum Bethune, WR Jordan Watkins, OT Enrique Cruz Jr., and CB Ephesians Prysock. For rookies Cruz Jr. and Prysock, being inactive is part of the grind, sure. But man, the real head-scratcher here is Jordan Watkins. This dude was a rookie *last year*, and he still can’t get on the field, even with multiple injuries at his position! The 49ers must not believe Watkins can bring anything to the table, whether it’s on offense or special teams. That’s a tough look for a guy trying to make his mark early in his career.
It’s early in the season, and having your key guys healthy and ready, especially after being questionable, is huge. This kind of early season roster clarity, especially with Black and Pineiro confirmed, sets the tone for the Niners’ home opener. Let’s see how these guys perform now that they’re officially cleared!
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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