As the San Francisco 49ers prepare for the critical 53-man roster cutdown by Tuesday at 1:00 P.M., the team faces a whirlwind of decisions that will drastically reshape their lineup. With the new rule allowing up to 90 players on the roster until this deadline, the 49ers have had the luxury of evaluating talent across all three preseason games. Now, it’s time to finalize their roster, and here’s a look at the projected 53-man squad before the final decisions are made.
Quarterbacks (3)
- Brock Purdy
- Josh Dobbs
- Brandon Allen
The 49ers’ quarterback room is anchored by Brock Purdy, the clear starter. The backup spot is up for grabs between Josh Dobbs and Brandon Allen. Given Dobbs' familiarity with the team, he is expected to secure the backup role, while Allen is likely to stay on the roster due to the team's historical preference for carrying three quarterbacks. Tanner Mordecai is projected to make the practice squad.
Running Backs (5)
- Christian McCaffrey
- Elijah Mitchell
- Jordan Mason
- Isaac Guerendo
- Kyle Juszczyk
The running back situation remains as anticipated, with Christian McCaffrey and Elijah Mitchell leading the charge. Jordan Mason has shown promise as the primary backup, while Isaac Guerendo’s special teams contributions bolster his case. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk is included for logistical reasons. Backup running backs like Matt Breida, Ke’Shawn Vaughn, and Cody Schrader are likely practice squad candidates.
Wide Receivers (6)
- Brandon Aiyuk
- Deebo Samuel
- Jauan Jennings
- Ricky Pearsall
- Jacob Cowing
- Chris Conley
Initially, it seemed the 49ers might opt for five receivers. However, ongoing issues with Brandon Aiyuk and Ricky Pearsall’s injuries suggest keeping six. Chris Conley stands out as the most reliable option among the remaining receivers, potentially filling a key role if Aiyuk isn’t ready by Week 1.
Tight Ends (4)
- George Kittle
- Eric Saubert
- Brayden Willis
- Cameron Latu
The tight end group is projected to include four players, with Cameron Latu earning a spot despite competition from Jake Tonges. George Kittle and Eric Saubert are clear locks, while Brayden Willis has demonstrated potential for future contributions.
Offensive Line (9)
- Trent Williams
- Aaron Banks
- Jake Brendel
- Dominick Puni
- Colton McKivitz
- Jaylon Moore
- Spencer Burford
- Nick Zakelj
- Chris Hubbard
The 49ers are set to carry nine offensive linemen, including two tackles, with Trent Williams' status influencing this decision. Chris Hubbard might be briefly cut to make room for Jon Feliciano’s IR placement but is expected to return. The roster features a solid starting five, with depth provided by Jaylon Moore, Spencer Burford, and others.
Defensive Line (8)
- Nick Bosa
- Leonard Floyd
- Yetur Gross-Matos
- Robert Beal Jr.
- Javon Hargrave
- Maliek Collins
- Jordan Elliott
- Kevin Givens
San Francisco’s defensive line is set with eight players, including key additions like Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos. With injuries affecting Floyd and Gross-Matos, this group offers flexibility, though changes may occur post-cutdown.
Linebackers (6)
- Fred Warner
- De’Vondre Campbell
- Dee Winters
- Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles
- Jalen Graham
- Curtis Robinson
With Dre Greenlaw on the PUP list, the 49ers have room to include an additional linebacker. Curtis Robinson is expected to secure a spot alongside the other primary linebackers, while Tatum Bethune could land on the practice squad.
Cornerbacks (6)
- Charvarius Ward
- Deommodore Lenoir
- Renardo Green
- Isaac Yiadom
- Darrell Luter
- Rock Ya-Sin
The 49ers’ cornerback depth allows for six players on the roster. Although Ambry Thomas might be placed on IR initially, the team values Darrell Luter’s potential and Rock Ya-Sin’s experience.
Safeties (3)
- Ji’Ayir Brown
- George Odum
- Malik Mustapha
With uncertainty around Talanoa Hufanga’s Week 1 availability, the 49ers are projected to carry three safeties: Ji’Ayir Brown, George Odum, and Malik Mustapha. Hufanga’s return timeline may influence final roster adjustments, with Tracy Walker as a possible practice squad call-up.
Special Teams (3)
- Jake Moody
- Mitch Wishnowsky
- Taybor Pepper
The special teams unit remains stable with Jake Moody, Mitch Wishnowsky, and Taybor Pepper. Despite a minor injury for Wishnowsky, the unit is expected to be fully operational for the regular season.
As the 49ers finalize their 53-man roster, the next 30 hours will be crucial in determining the final composition of the team. With tough decisions across all positions, San Francisco is set to make strategic choices that will shape their 2024 season. Stay tuned for the official roster announcement and how these final decisions will impact the 49ers' pursuit of success.
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