49ers Adjust Brock Purdy Plans Amid Widespread Preseason Injuries

The San Francisco 49ers face a challenging preseason marked by numerous injuries, particularly at the wide receiver position, forcing head coach Kyle Shanahan to adjust his plans and seek additional reinforcements. Shanahan's reassuring call to quarterback Brock Purdy helped secure a $265 million contract extension, reaffirming Purdy's role as the team's long-term leader despite the injury-plagued camp. Key wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Demarcus Robinson are sidelined due to injury and suspension, respectively, prompting the 49ers to acquire Skyy Moore from the Chiefs and explore other potential additions such as Kendrick Bourne and Marquez Valdes-Scantling to bolster the depleted receiver corps. Injuries have also impacted the offensive line, with the absence of Trent Williams weakening the run game and forcing less experienced players to fill critical roles. Shanahan has limited the preseason playing time for starters, including Purdy, to reduce injury risk, especially following a knee sprain suffered by backup quarterback Mac Jones, whose status remains hopeful for Week 1. Despite these setbacks, Shanahan remains optimistic about the team's prospects, emphasizing injury management and building chemistry with emerging receivers like rookie Ricky Pearsall.