The clock is seriously ticking for the San Francisco 49ers, with that August 30, 3:00 p.m. PT deadline for their 53-man roster cut just days away. This isn’t just about who makes the big squad, though. It’s also about filling those critical 16 practice squad spots, plus that extra International Player slot, which is where some serious chess moves are happening. They’ve got one final preseason game left to sort it all out, and the decisions coming down this week are gonna shape their depth for a while.
Offensive Juggling Acts and Risky Bets
Talk about playing chess, not checkers! On offense, the 49ers are reportedly keeping three quarterbacks on the main roster, so no need for a practice squad arm. But they’re not just letting Kurtis Rourke walk. He’s set to be the scout team QB, and get this: he’s projected to be Brock Purdy’s backup *after this season*. They’re not risking him on waivers, which tells you everything about how important they see that position.
Running back is a real head-scratcher. Sincere McCormick is looking like a practice squad guy, but that could absolutely pivot depending on Isaac Guerendo’s health. And forget a fullback for the practice squad, apparently the tight ends are doing double duty. Brayden Willis, who’s already lined up at fullback ten times in three preseason games, and Khalil Dinkins are both projected for the practice squad. Wide receiver is wild, too. Jordan Watkins is not guaranteed a roster spot, and neither is Christian Kirk. The team is reportedly giving Kirk the “benefit of the doubt” and is unwilling to risk losing him as an unrestricted free agent. That’s a huge gamble, especially with Watkins, Malik Turner, and Wesley Grimes all looking like practice squad locks. We’ll also see Enrique Cruz Jr., Drake Nugent, and Connor Colby making up part of the scout team offensive line, with Isaac Alarcon as the International Player.
Defense Doesn’t Get The Short End of The Stick
Don’t let anyone tell you defense is an afterthought here. The 49ers are banking on a pair of young defensive tackles, plus they’ll elevate a veteran pass rusher until Mykel Williams gets activated. The plan includes keeping Larry Worth III around, which is smart; gotta keep developing that talent. The secondary is a tough call, but Jakob Robinson is projected for nickel, and Darrell Luter Jr. should be back once he clears waivers. Plus, Jalen Stroman is looking like a practice squad safety.
This week of practice, and that last preseason game, is the final audition before things get real. These roster decisions, especially for those crucial practice squad spots, are gonna define their depth and flexibility moving forward. It’s all on the line to lock in that 53-man roster and solidify the practice squad by Sunday.
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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