The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for their second preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders this Saturday, amid a roster already hit by injuries and positional battles that are expected to intensify as the regular season approaches.
Last week, Kyle Shanahan opted to rest the starters, fielding only second-string players and beyond, except positions with less depth, like safety. Here’s what to expect for the game against the Raiders and whether Brock Purdy and other starters will see the field.
Are Brock Purdy and Other 49ers’ Starters Playing Against Las Vegas Tonight?
Shanahan’s preseason plan in recent years has followed a consistent pattern regarding the number of snaps starters take in each game. His philosophy prioritizes resting key players during preseason games while focusing on joint practices and isolated scenarios to control the environment and avoid injuries.
In the game against the Denver Broncos, the starters were rested. Against the Raiders, Shanahan confirmed that Purdy and other starters will play for a few series, something fans are eager to see. This will be Purdy’s first snaps since signing his new contract.
#49ers QB Brock Purdy and some starters are expected to play Saturday against the Raiders, per Kyle Shanahan pic.twitter.com/iIBrzYy52v
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers) August 14, 2025
Other starters will also see the field, though specific names haven’t been disclosed. George Kittle and Ricky Pearsall are likely to play alongside Purdy, as well as most of the offensive line, with caution expected for Trent Williams due to his age and injury risk.
The game will kick off at 1:05 p.m. PT at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and will air for the Bay Area on KRON 4 and in Los Angeles on KTLA 5.
Which 49ers Players Should Be on the Watchlist For The Raiders’ Game?
San Francisco faces a unique situation with multiple injuries early in the preseason, which could affect the number of snaps starters take and how many players see the field.
Shanahan has already confirmed Purdy to get some snaps on Saturday. Alongside him, Pearsall will likely see his first preseason action, and DeMarcus Robinson could also have a bigger role.
The rest of the receiving group is heavily depleted, with Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Jacob Cowing, and Jordan Watkins all unavailable. This opens opportunities for Russell Gage Jr., Terique Owens, and Junior Bergen to take more snaps and prove their value.
Junior Bergen. Drafted to be the return guy and pulls this off on his first NFL punt? Ridiculous. That Broncos player had him dead to rights and instead gets sent to the turf by Bergen’s crazy first step. So impressive.
Still an uphill battle for him, but what a start. #49ers pic.twitter.com/Mljhsdy9C4— Rob Lowder (@Rob_Lowder) August 12, 2025
On offense, Kittle is always a safe bet when Purdy is on the field. The tight end is expected to participate in at least one series to get into rhythm before the season, likely being rested during the final preseason week.
Defensively, the player to watch is Chase Lucas. He was the standout against the Broncos and is competing not just for a roster spot but to become a key piece in Robert Saleh’s secondary. Lucas showed physicality and dedication on every snap last week, and the team needs more depth at cornerback.
