Eric Kendricks Set for 49ers Debut, Defense Gets Key Reinforcements Ahead of Colts Matchup
The 49ers are getting a fresh injection of veteran leadership and young talent just in time for Monday night’s showdown against the Colts. Linebacker Eric Kendricks is officially active and ready to make his San Francisco debut, bringing with him a wealth of experience-and a reputation as one of the league’s most instinctive tacklers.
Kendricks, who led the Cowboys in tackles last season, had been waiting for the right opportunity to join a playoff-caliber team. After nursing a calf strain early on, he’s now healthy and ready to contribute. The 10-year veteran has appeared in 147 games with 142 starts, and his versatility-he can play all three linebacker spots-adds a valuable layer of depth to a defense that’s been surging during a four-game win streak.
He’s already making an impression behind the scenes. Fellow linebacker Tatum Bethune, who returns to the lineup after missing three games with a high ankle sprain, spoke glowingly about Kendricks’ impact in the meeting room.
“I used to play him on Madden, him and Harrison Smith,” Bethune said with a smile. “He’s been a great help, especially with Fred [Warner] being out of the room and rehabbing.
He’ll point out little things-like how tight ends line up-that really help us. I’m just glad he’s here.”
With Bethune back and Kendricks stepping in, Curtis Robinson, who had started the last three games in Bethune’s absence, is inactive for this one.
49ers Game Day Inactives and Roster Moves
The 49ers made several roster tweaks ahead of kickoff. Defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos was activated from injured reserve after missing time with a hamstring strain. Injuries have plagued his two-year stint in San Francisco-he’s missed 15 of 31 games-but his return adds much-needed depth to the defensive front.
Also back in the fold is defensive tackle Jordan Elliott, who was a surprise scratch last week against Tennessee. With Sam Okuayinonu cleared from the injury list, the 49ers suddenly have their deepest defensive line rotation in weeks.
The team also elevated Kendricks and cornerback Eli Apple from the practice squad. For Apple, it’s his second elevation of the season.
He previously suited up against Jacksonville but saw only special teams action. With Renardo Green sidelined due to a neck injury and Chase Lucas inactive for the first time this season, Apple could be called upon to play defensive snaps alongside Deommodore Lenoir, Darrell Luter Jr., and rookie Upton Stout in the slot.
Other 49ers inactives include wide receiver Ricky Pearsall Jr., defensive tackle Kevin Givens, running back Isaac Guerendo, defensive end Robert Beal, and cornerbacks Green and Lucas.
Rookie wideout Jordan Watkins, a fourth-round pick out of Ole Miss, is active for just the third time this season.
Jordan James Gets His Shot
Another notable activation: rookie running back Jordan James, a fifth-rounder out of Oregon who’s been inactive for 14 games this season, is up for tonight’s game. He takes the place of Isaac Guerendo, who’s been active all year but has yet to log a carry after rushing for 420 yards as a rookie last season. James now gets a chance to show what he can do in live action.
Colts Inactives
On the other sideline, the Colts will be without some key contributors, including standout cornerback Sauce Gardner, linebacker Jaylon Charles, running back D.J. Giddens, wide receiver Anthony Gould, safety Reuben Lowery III, tight end Will Mallory, and tackle Bernhard Raimann.
Purdy Spreads Holiday Cheer
Off the field, Brock Purdy is once again making headlines for all the right reasons. A year after gifting Toyota SUVs to his offensive linemen for Christmas, Purdy and his wife Jenna partnered with Toyota again-this time to give back to military families and children battling pediatric cancer.
Each family received a care package that included a football, tickets to the 49ers’ upcoming rivalry game against Seattle, and the team’s new rivalry jersey. But the real surprise came outside, where brand-new Toyota SUVs with red bows were waiting for each family. It’s a gesture that speaks volumes about Purdy’s character and leadership, both on and off the field.
Juszczyk Leads Pro Bowl Fan Vote at Fullback
Fullback Kyle Juszczyk continues to be the gold standard at his position. He led all fullbacks in Pro Bowl fan voting and is on track for his 10th Pro Bowl selection. The final rosters, determined by a combination of fan, player, and coach votes, will be announced Tuesday.
The Pro Bowl Games are set for Feb. 3 at Moscone Center in San Francisco, just a short drive from Levi’s Stadium-the site of Super Bowl LX. If the 49ers stay hot, they’ll be hoping to skip the Pro Bowl festivities altogether and focus on the big one eight days later.
Other 49ers who finished in the top 10 in fan voting at their positions include:
- Christian McCaffrey - No. 4 among running backs
- Trent Williams - No. 5 at offensive tackle
- George Kittle - No. 5 at tight end
- Skyy Moore - No. 6 as a return specialist
- Eddy Piñeiro - No. 8 at place kicker
- Luke Gifford - No. 8 for special teams
As the 49ers gear up for a critical stretch run, they’re getting healthier, deeper, and more balanced-just in time to make a serious push toward February football.