Ranking the 49ers’ rookies: Jaden Dugger, Gracen Halton jump out in loaded class (paywall)
“Perhaps most encouraging, Halton is still mastering the technique that position coach Kris Kocurek wants him to use. That is, there’s reason to believe he can be more effective in the middle of the defensive line.”
Five important players to watch for injury-ravaged, undefeated 49ers vs. Falcons
“Watkins has good size, speed and hands. But he will have to create separation at the top of his route for quarterback
Brock Purdy to throw it his way.”
49ers vs. Falcons: The Standard’s 5 fast predictions (paywall)
“Kawakami: 49ers 23, Falcons 21. This is an obvious potential trap game for the 49ers, but probably too obvious. Even if the 49ers sit almost every player with an injury question mark and muddle through most of this 10 a.m. body-clock start, I think their proud veterans will squeeze out a victory.”
49ers WR Evans, DE Bosa, WR Samuel out vs. Atlanta; WR Kirk may return
“Thankfully for me, I’ve played enough ball, I’ve played a lot of football and have got a lot of experience,” Kirk said. “This week has just been treating every rep like a game rep … I know once I get out there on Sunday, if that’s what the case is going to be, it’s just like playing football again. I’m excited for that opportunity when it does present itself.”
Kyle Shanahan shares final updates ahead of 49ers-Falcons
“No, I just think he was a little too optimistic, especially for Bosa because he’s pretty accurate. He doesn’t say stuff like that unless it’s accurate. I just think it surprised him. He worked out, after he said that to you guys, and the next day he was just a little sore, which surprised all of us. That wasn’t a great sign, especially going to play on turf and stuff this week, so I think it was more he was just a little too optimistic.”
49ers injury updates: Nick Bosa dealt with soreness recently in a workout
“Mike Evans also missed Friday’s session. Shanahan ruled out Evans. The 49ers will play their first game of the season without their star wide receiver. Evans has missed time in a couple of games and remains the team leader in several categories.”
