Week 2 presents a major test for a battered 49ers squad headed to New Orleans with Brock Purdy out and Mac Jones stepping in. The offense leans on Christian McCaffrey, Ricky Pearsall, and a reshuffled receiving corps, while the defense must carry against a Saints attack missing multiple pieces. Backups like Adrian Martinez enter the conversation, and Juszczyk’s red‑zone role adds a sneaky fantasy upside. Monitor the Saints’ pass‑catchers for late‑game leverage and any backdoor plays via Brian Thomas Jr. and Jawan Johnson.

Depth becomes the headline as injuries tilt the game plan. SF’s ability to run it or lean on checkdowns will shape fantasy outcomes, especially if Mac Jones isn’t asked to carry the load. With McCaffrey’s volume, Pearsall’s target share, and a defense that must clamp down, the matchup is a true test of how far San Francisco can push its injury‑ravaged roster this week. The Saints’ receivers and tight ends offer a path to dividends if the game stays close.