49ers protect 3 practice squad players, re-sign CB Dontae Johnson
The San Francisco 49ers announced more than a few transactions on Tuesday. The first move was signing CB Dontae Johnson to the team’s practice squad. In a corresponding move, the Niners “waived” OLB Elijah Sullivan.
There is a huge difference between a player being “waived” and a player being “released.” If you missed my in-depth analysis on that, please read the above piece.
Sullivan now goes to the waiver wire where he can get “claimed” by another NFL team. DJ was a final roster cut but brought back due to CB Emmanuel Moseley nursing a hamstring injury. Depth is a concern.
The Niners also protected three practice squad players; QB Nate Sudfeld, WR Travis Benjamin, and CB Dee Virgin. The NFL is allowing teams to block up to four practice squad players per week, who can be activated to the 53-man roster. (You can catch the practice squad rules on that in the article above).
Sudfeld will likely be activated if rookie QB Trey Lance (index finger) is unable to play while Benjamin can double down as a return man. Virgin may add depth but is it good depth? Time will tell.
The 49ers should cover the spread this week and easily pounce on the Detroit Lions straight outta the gates. The Lions are no match for the Niners. They will dominate the TOP (time of possession), chew up clock time, and wear down the Lions defense with an established rushing attack. I fully expect at least 200 rushing yards.
No way, San Francisco 49ers lose this game. At least they shouldn’t. Time will tell.
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