The San Francisco 49ers face their division rivals, the Arizona Cardinals, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona on Sunday, Nov. 16 at 1:05 p.m. PDT. The Niners will be seeking to bounce back from their loss to the NFC West-leading Los Angeles Rams last weekend, but they may have reinforcements coming. Quarterback Brock Purdy could make his return after a six-game absence with a toe injury, while fellow Arizona native Ricky Pearsall is working his way back from a knee issue.
But let's be clear about one false narrative. The 49ers are not in a bad way because of their purge of the 2024 roster by coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch. As much as the 49ers spoke of regret in bidding adieu to so many players, the process was logical and well thought out. With just one exception, the ex-49ers haven't exactly gone on to bigger and better things in their new homes.
That won't bring back Nick Bosa, Fred Warner or Mykel Williams. Nor does it appear to be getting Brandon Aiyuk that much closer to practicing. But quarterback Brock Purdy (turf toe) is getting closer to practicing enough to merit a start. Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall Jr. (knee) may restart practice after missing the last six games. Defensive tackle Alfred Collins (hip) may also practice and be available by the time they visit the Arizona Cardinals (3-6) Sunday.
Considering he hasn't had a good season and fell down the depth chart throughout the summer, it's almost shocking to see any team willing to give up even late-round draft capital to acquire him. But given the losses the 49ers have dealt with, like Fred Warner, it's not entirely surprising that they were interested in providing White a fresh start. The Patriots make their first big trade ahead of the 2025 NFL deadline
