Pittsburgh’s first injury report of the week highlights eight players, with rookie Derrick Harmon returning to practice in a limited role and potentially easing a front that’s looked vulnerable early. His reintroduction could lift the defense as it faces New England, though workload will be tapered as he ramps up.

T.J. Watt and Darius Slay Jr. took veteran rest days, Highsmith is ruled out for the Patriots game, and Porter Jr. and Elliott are listed as questionable. Patrick Queen practiced fully, while Scharping was limited. Harmon’s return, combined with the uncertain statuses of key defenders, shapes Pittsburgh’s game plan and fantasy outlook against New England.

The note on Highsmith’s ankle and the team’s decision not to IR him offer a glimmer of optimism for a quicker-than-expected return. Context of earlier battles with Jets and Seahawks adds texture for evaluators tracking how Pittsburgh adjusts its front seven in this matchup.

Brock Purdy may return for the 49ers' home game against Arizona, with a turf-toe recovery that could allow limited practice this week. If he suits up, SF’s fantasy upside remains bright with Kittle and Jennings as primary targets and Tonges lurking as a Week 1 hero. In Week 2, Mac Jones orchestrated a surprising SF debut with 279 yards and 3 TDs, a sign the backup QB path can still produce fantasy dividends. Arizona starts 2-0 but hasn’t topped 300 yards in a game, hinting at potential regression as SF’s defense clamps down.

Week 1 saw Purdy deliver a late TD pass to Tonges, while Seattle loomed as the opener. The Cards’ offense, led by Kyler Murray, has been productive enough to win without explosive totals. The Week 3 clash will test Purdy’s health and the 49ers’ depth, with implications for Kittle, Jennings, Tonges and the backfield in fantasy lineups.

Brock Purdy's turf toe has him limited at practice with a real chance to play Week 3 against Arizona. Shanahan will gauge reps to reintegrate him, a step SF needs after a banged-up 2024 and George Kittle being on IR. Mac Jones filled in Week 2 and SF won, but Purdy's health remains the keystone for fantasy value and divisional plans.

If Purdy suits up, expect SF to blend quick passes with a steady run game, keeping targets spread but leaning on McCaffrey and the receiving corps. If he sits, Jones or a scaled-back script could shift the offense, lifting or lowering fantasy upside across the lineup as SF guards Purdy's timetable.

The Week 3 matchup vs Arizona becomes a litmus test for Purdy's timetable and the offense's staying power as SF navigates a tough division; the team’s depth and return timeline will shape weekly fantasy projections far beyond this week.