SF’s Week 2 showcase in Las Vegas offered a sharper read on the 2025 roster hours ahead of Week 1 in Seattle. Purdy opened with a clean, efficient series, but the real spark came from Ricky Pearsall, who looked like a credible option at and beyond the top-three WR tier as the 49ers sort through Aiyuk, Jennings, and Robinson. Kicker Jake Moody recovered from a rocky first half to nail four attempts, including a 59-yarder in a pressure spot, sealing the tie after a late Raiders rally. Rookie Nick Martin piled up tackles and disruption, flashing the athleticism and instincts the 49ers hoped to unlock behind Dee Winters. San Francisco’s depth was on full display, with Carter Bradley directing the second unit and clearing a path for Purdy’s continued progression. The trio of Moody, Pearsall, and Martin provided a blueprint for fantasy managers: clean, high-leverage roles emerging from a crowded camp, while Purdy’s early connection with Pearsall hints at a deeper pass-game ceiling if health and trust solidify. Week 1 in Seattle is looming, and the 49ers sit a little taller, a little more dangerous, with standout depth ready to step in when called.

From a fantasy perspective, Pearsall’s early chemistry with Purdy should raise his Dynasty and best-ball profile as the WR depth chart remains fluid. Moody’s late-season-like clutch performance is a reminder that in-practice accuracy translates to game-action opportunity, albeit with the risk that SF’s kicking situation remains unsettled. Martin’s bounce-back performance underscores the value of edge and inside-linebacker depth on a defense known for rotating get-to-the-ball players. The game also underscored the value of a quarterback room that can survive a one-drive sampler and still leave the starter with ample prep time for Week 1. The blend of youth and veteran steadiness could push SF’s fantasy upside higher as the season approaches.

San Francisco’s preseason opener offered a clear snapshot of the 49ers’ rookie class in flux. Thirteen of the original seventeen rookies played, delivering a spectrum of outcomes from incomplete to standout. Mykel Williams was inactive with a knee issue, leaving edge-rep opportunities thin early. Alfred Collins and Nick Martin struggled to impact the game, while Upton Stout and Jordan Watkins flashed the most upside. Watkins snagged three of six targets for 56 yards, highlighted by a 50-yard grab that underscored potential early playing time. Contenders like Connor Colby flashed steady progress in pass protection, Junior Bergen provided a spark on special teams, and Marques Sigle looked the part of a developing starter in the secondary depth chart. The takeaway for fantasy: Watkins could press for early involvement, Kiner’s vision and stroke give him a roster case, and the 49ers’ late-rounds and undrafted group showed enough in flashes to keep a few on the radar for practice squads or later-season roles.

Other notes: Jordan James’ injury-impacted return suggests the depth at running back will be tested, while Kurtis Rourke remains on the non-football injury list, delaying a potential rookie quarterback path. CJ West’s nickel corner role remains a focal point as the defense builds interior pressure and coverage flexibility. In total, SF’s rookie performance laid a foundation of intrigue—enough to keep fantasy managers watching the next exhibition for real clues on playing time, role definition, and depth-chart movement as Week 1 approaches.

The Houston Texans are counting down the days until their 2025 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, which is just 66 days away. As part of this countdown, the Texans Wire is highlighting players who have donned the number of the day. Today, the focus is on players who wore No. 66 since the team's inception in 2002. Currently, No. 66 is unassigned, but it has belonged to notable players in the past, particularly Nick Martin, who was integral to the Texans' success during the Deshaun Watson era, starting 62 games from 2016 to 2020.

While Martin faced criticism for his pass protection, his contributions at center helped the Texans win two division titles and reach two playoffs during his tenure. Other players who wore the number include Cole Toner, Andrew Gardner, and Deljuan Robinson, but their impact was minor compared to Martin's. As the Texans prepare for the upcoming season, they may consider a new player to fill this vacant number, potentially after roster adjustments.

The San Francisco 49ers faced a setback when rookie linebacker Nick Martin sustained a minor thumb fracture while lifting weights. Reports clarified that he won't require surgery and is on track to return for training camp. Remarkably, the injury did not hinder his participation in offseason practices, signaling his resilience.

Despite missing seven games in his final collegiate season at Oklahoma State due to a knee injury, Martin stands to be a significant addition to the 49ers' defense. Selected in the third round, he was recognized as a First-Team All-Big 12 player, boasting impressive stats of 140 tackles and 16 for loss last season. His ability to contribute right away will be pivotal for the 49ers as they aim to bolster their defensive lineup.

The San Francisco 49ers are adjusting to a significant change in their linebacker corps after losing Dre Greenlaw to the Denver Broncos and De'Vondre Campbell, who remains unsigned. In response, the team has bolstered its lineup by acquiring veterans Luke Gifford and Chazz Surratt while also drafting promising linebacker Nick Martin from Oklahoma State. Martin showcased impressive skills during offseason practices, suggesting he could compete for a starting position alongside Fred Warner. However, a recent injury resulted in a broken bone during training, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season and the depth of the 49ers' defense.