The Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers meet to kick off their respective preseasons in a rematch of Super Bowl LIV. The Chiefs won that matchup 31-20 and will be looking to get to a third straight Super Bowl this season. The 49ers were ravaged by injuries last season, but believe they can compete in a loaded NFC West.
UPDATE: Kyle Shanahan told the media he does not expect the following to play vs. the Chiefs: Alex Mack, Trent Williams, Raheem Mostert, Kyle Juszczyk, Mohamed Sanu, Nick Bosa, Dee Ford, and Jalen Hurd.
Quarterbacks
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said the starters will play the first quarter, meaning Patrick Mahomes will be in action. 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said Jimmy Garoppolo will play one series, and the starters will come off the field with him after that. Trey Lance, San Francisco’s 2021 first-round pick, will take the field after that.
Running Backs
Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Darrel Williams might not get a ton of action, but both will see some carries. Expect Jerick McKinnon and Darwin Thompson to get more carries. On San Francisco’s side, Jeff Wilson Jr. is injured and won’t play. Raheem Mostert will probably come off the field with Garoppolo. That means Trey Sermon and Wayne Gallman will get most of the work.
UPDATE: Raheem Mostert and Kyle Juszczyk will not play for the 49ers.
Wide Receivers
Antonio Callaway is questionable to play, but everyone else should be ready to go. Tyreek Hill and Mecole Hardman will likely come off the field with the starters after the first quarter, but Demarcus Robinson will still be involved. Jalen Hurd will not play for the 49ers, but expect Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel to come off the field with Garoppolo. This will mean more opportunities for Richie James and Travis Benjamin.
UPDATE: Mohamed Sanu and Jalen Hurd will not play for the 49ers.
Tight Ends
Travis Kelce will play the first quarter, but the Chiefs will use Blake Bell and Noah Gray after that. George Kittle’s return from injury is something worth monitoring for the 49ers. MyCole Pruitt is questionable to play, but could see action. Ross Dwelley will feature heavily.