The San Francisco 49ers are wrapping up their final practice session before boarding a flight to Australia ahead of the season opener on September 10th, or the 11th if you’re in Australia. Eight days is an eternity in 49ers land, but as of now, things are looking positive for the team before they clash with the Los Angeles Rams. Aside from the second meeting between the division rivals in 2025, every game comes down to the wire or down to a few plays to decide the winner. You can expect that trend
to continue.
Here are the biggest concerns for the 49ers heading into Week 1:
Nick Bosa, Mike Evans and George Kittle’s health
The good news is both players were practicing today and are flying to Australia, according to reports. It should be viewed as a good sign that both would travel. If either player were in danger of missing Week 1, they wouldn’t fly and put their body through the long flight. Both Bosa and Kittle are vital to the 49ers’ success, but without a fully healthy, effective Bosa, the 49ers’ defense takes a huge hit.
The goal is to get both through the season, but today is a positive step for both playing in Australia. Mike Evans also returned, which is a welcome sight, and his presence and production are needed for the 2026 49ers offense. Managing all three will be key for the 49ers.
The left guard spot
When Kyle Shanahan says they haven’t decided who will start at left guard and brought in veteran IOL Jarett Patterson via trade with the Houston Texans, it doesn’t evoke a ton of confidence. The team has been looking for a consistent starter since Aaron Banks’s departure. The problem is that neither Carver Willis nor Connor Colby has taken a definitive lead in the race to start. Both have good plays on tape, but the consistency is a concern.
Is the answer as simple as turning to Patterson? That remains to be seen, but this many options can’t be viewed as a good thing. The decision looms large.
Who will start opposite Deommodore Lenoir in Week 1?
Renardo Green is dealing with a hamstring injury, but today’s practice report added veteran cornerback Jack Jones working off on the side field and working through an undisclosed injury at the moment. With Green not practicing and the flight to Australia today, coupled with a banged-up Jones. The question of the second outside cornerback becomes much more of a concern with the team facing Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, potentially.
It’s easy to name the safety position, but Ephesians Prysock could get a welcome-to-the-NFL moment if Green and Jones are out for Week 1.
