The San Francisco 49ers received a wave of positive updates in their Thursday practice participation report ahead of Week 3, but the optimism was tempered by persistent concerns surrounding wide receiver Jauan Jennings. As the team prepares for their next matchup, Jennings’ ongoing absence due to shoulder and ankle injuries casts a shadow over an otherwise encouraging injury report.
The 49ers’ practice report showcased several positive developments. Quarterback Brock Purdy, despite dealing with shoulder and toe issues, was back on the field, signaling his likely availability. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk and defensive back Siran Neal both made progress in the concussion protocol, participating in limited practice. Star running back Christian McCaffrey, managing a calf issue, was a full participant, though the team appears to be cautiously limiting his Wednesday practices to preserve his health for the long season. Defensive end Nick Bosa, listed as a full participant, was simply resting, a routine move for the veteran, while rookie running back Jordan James was also a full participant despite a finger injury.
These updates suggest the 49ers are trending in the right direction for key players. However, the absence of Jauan Jennings and offensive lineman Spencer Burford, coupled with uncertainty around rookie wide receiver Jordan Watkins, raises significant concerns for a team already struggling to find offensive rhythm in 2025.
Jennings, the team’s No. 2 wide receiver, has been a vital part of the 49ers’ passing game. With seven catches for 105 yards and a touchdown through the first two weeks, he trails only Ricky Pearsall (eight catches, 164 yards) in the receiving corps. The drop-off after Jennings is stark—Kendrick Bourne, the third-most productive wide receiver, has just three receptions for 32 yards, and no other wide receiver has recorded a catch. Jennings’ physicality and reliability, particularly on third downs, make him a trusted target for both starting quarterback Brock Purdy and backup Mac Jones.
The 2020 seventh-round pick suffered a shoulder injury in the season opener, which left him questionable for Week 2. Despite playing through an ankle injury sustained in that game, Jennings has been unable to practice this week, missing both Wednesday and Thursday sessions. While he was similarly absent from practices leading up to Week 2 and still played, his status for Week 3 remains uncertain. If Jennings is unable to suit up, the 49ers would lose a critical component of their offense, further straining a receiving group that has struggled to produce consistently.
Beyond Jennings, the 49ers are grappling with other injury issues. Offensive lineman Spencer Burford, who suffered a knee injury against the New Orleans Saints in Week 2, did not participate in practice and is reportedly a candidate for injured reserve. His potential absence could weaken an already thin offensive line. Rookie wide receiver Jordan Watkins, who was not listed on the injury report in Week 2, appeared on Thursday’s report with a calf issue and was limited in practice. Head coach Kyle Shanahan is expected to provide clarity on Watkins’ status during his Friday media availability, but the rookie’s sudden injury adds another layer of uncertainty to the receiving corps.
The limited participation of defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos (knee), left tackle Trent Williams (knee), and the aforementioned Juszczyk and Neal offers some hope, as all are trending toward playing. Purdy’s limited status is less concerning, given his return to practice, but the 49ers will need to monitor his shoulder and toe issues closely to ensure their quarterback remains at full strength.
The 49ers’ offense has struggled to find its footing in 2025, and Jennings’ potential absence could exacerbate those challenges. His role as a big-bodied, sure-handed receiver is not easily replaced, especially with the lack of depth at the position. While the return of key players like McCaffrey and Purdy provides a boost, the team’s ability to generate consistent offense will hinge on the health of their supporting cast.
As the 49ers await further updates on Jennings, Burford, and Watkins, Friday’s practice report and Shanahan’s comments will be critical in determining the team’s outlook for Week 3. For now, the promising practice report is overshadowed by the looming question mark over Jauan Jennings, whose absence could prove to be a hidden crisis for San Francisco’s offense.