Brock Purdy toe injury makes Week 2 a long shot, nudging SF toward a plan that could hinge on run-game reliability and a possible No.3 QB. Moody’s kicking struggles surface again as the 49ers reassess scoring chances, while Ji’Ayir Brown’s growing role provides defensive upside. The piece also references front-office turnover that coincides with Moody’s exit, and Shanahan’s Week 2 preview against the Saints.

Fantasy impact centers on Purdy’s status and SF’s ability to manufacture points without him. If Purdy sits, the offense tilts to safer passes and a heavier ground game, pushing the catch-cowardice of Debo/Kittle toward efficiency rather than explosiveness. Brown’s emergence could boost SF’s defensive value as the team navigates its Week 2 challenge against New Orleans.

SF closed the preseason with a 30-23 win over the Chargers, but the real takeaway is the 53-man roster clock ticking down. Defensive depth dominated the night, with Jordan Elliott, Renardo Green, Marquese Sigle and Ji'Ayir Brown logging heavy snaps as SF shapes its safety rotation behind Jason Pinnock. Connor Colby flashed versatility on the line, hinting at Week 1 guard possibilities as Ben Bartch’s health remains a variable. Jeff Wilson Jr. surged for 41 yards and a TD, complicating Guerendo and James’ roster cases. Skyy Moore’s debut was uneven, underscoring a gradual ramp for his offensive impact. DTs Bruce Hector, Sebastian Valdez and Evan Anderson showed punch from depth, offering optimism for the regular season.

The San Francisco 49ers are poised for significant changes in their secondary as the 2025 season approaches. Following the offseason that saw the departure of key contributors, injuries to critical players, and underwhelming performances from starters, there’s an open competition for the safety positions. Ji'Ayir Brown looks to be a steadfast presence, while the return of Talanoa Hufanga from injury could shake up the lineup. With training camp set to commence, the pressure is on for these players to prove their worth and secure a starting role.

The San Francisco 49ers have experienced a significant shakeup in their secondary this offseason, losing key players such as Talanoa Hufanga to the Denver Broncos and Charvarius Ward to the Indianapolis Colts through free agency. This development raises questions about the team's defensive strategy going forward, particularly with strong safety Malik Mustapha still recovering from a serious knee injury sustained last season.

In light of these changes, Ji'Ayir Brown is set to take over as the starting free safety, following a promising second season where he saw substantial playing time. The absence of experienced players may lead defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to rely on less proven talents like Marques Sigle, a fifth-round draft pick out of Kansas State. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the effectiveness of these new defensive backs could prove crucial for maintaining the 49ers' competitiveness.