Two Key 49ers Players Clear Concussion Protocol Ahead of Cardinals Game

San Francisco, September 20, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers are gradually recovering in time for their home opener on Thursday at Levi’s Stadium. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk and cornerback Siran Neal have officially cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol and are expected to play against the Arizona Cardinals.

Impact of Juszczyk and Neal in the Game

Both players were full participants in Friday’s practice after being limited throughout the week. Juszczyk and Neal have played in both of the 49ers’ first two games of the season (2-0), with Juszczyk recording 3 receptions for 37 yards, including 5 yards in the 26-21 Week 2 victory over the New Orleans Saints – a game started by Mac Jones.

Juszczyk is the "unsung hero," particularly in his role as a lead blocker for Christian McCaffrey. With Mac Jones potentially continuing as the starting QB in this divisional matchup – facing a Cardinals team that previously won in Santa Clara – and Jauan Jennings missing Friday’s practice due to ankle/shoulder injuries (questionable), Juszczyk’s presence as both a blocker and pass-catcher will be critical.

Neal has primarily played on special teams with 35 snaps this season, recording just 1 tackle and no defensive snaps. However, he is listed as the backup free safety to Jason Pinnock and has experience at both cornerback and safety, ready to step in if an injury occurs.

Brock Purdy’s Status and Other Injuries

Despite Purdy’s optimism about his progress with toe/left shoulder injuries, head coach Kyle Shanahan stated it is "highly unlikely" he will start, though he could serve as a backup or emergency quarterback. Purdy was limited in practice all week and is expected to miss 2-4 weeks per reports. Trent Williams (knee) was also a full practice participant on Friday and will protect the QB’s blindside.

Other injuries: WR Jordan Watkins (calf) and OL Spencer Burford (knee) are out; LG Connor Colby (groin) is questionable; WR Jauan Jennings is questionable. The 49ers are aiming for just their second 3-0 start in five years in this NFC West-deciding matchup against the Cardinals (2-0).