Game Info
Kickoff: Sunday, September 14th, 2025, 1:00 PM ET
Location: Caesar’s Superdome, New Orleans, LA
Network: FOX
San Francisco 49ers
Quarterback
Brock Purdy/Mac Jones: SIT
We’re in a bit of a predicament when it comes to the 49ers’ starting quarterback situation. Brock Purdy reportedly has a toe and shoulder injury that could keep him out multiple weeks, but he’s yet to be officially ruled out. Even if by some miracle he does play, you can’t risk starting him. Mac Jones is worth stashing in Superflex leagues, but that’s about it.
Running Back
Christian McCaffrey: START, RB1
Brian Robinson Jr.: SIT
Somehow, someway, Christian McCaffrey is one of the lone remaining Niners starters on offense that’s still healthy. If he’s on the field, he’s in your starting lineup, period. Brian Robinson Jr is the top handcuff in all of fantasy land, but nothing more.
Wide Receiver
Ricky Pearsall: START, WR2/3
Jauan Jennings: SIT
Ricky Pearsall could wind up starting alongside Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Kendrick Bourne if Jauan Jennings is unable to suit up on Sunday. He’s the only 49ers receiver I’m willing to start. Even if Jennings is active, banged up with Mac Jones under center, I’m looking elsewhere.
Tight End
Jake Tonges: SIT
An undrafted free agent who signed with the Bears in 2022 and eventually the 49ers in 2023, Jake Tonges recorded his first career catch and touchdown last week. You’re not starting him.
New Orleans Saints
Quarterback
Spencer Rattler: SIT
Running Back
Alvin Kamara: START, Borderline RB2
Kendre Miller: SIT
Devin Neal: SIT
You’re starting Alvin Kamara, but I find his lack of targets disturbing. Thanks to this nugget pointed out by my friend Heath Cummings, it may be more than just a fluke.
Touchdown saved the day, but two targets for Alvin Kamara on Spencer Rattler's 46 attempts 🚩🚩🚩
Wrote about Kellen Moore's history back in August pic.twitter.com/7aBYz9jVzV
— Heath Cummings (@heathcummingssr) September 7, 2025
Wide Receiver
Chris Olave: START, WR3
Rashid Shaheed: FLEX, WR5
Brandin Cooks: SIT
An injury scare for Chris Olave is not what you want to see, but even with Spencer Rattler under center, if Olave sees double-digit targets nearly every week, he’s a high upside WR3. With Rattler throwing nearly 50 times, Rashid Shaeed also nearly reached 10 targets. Don’t expect that high of volume to continue, but Shaheed is on the FLEX radar due to his big play potential
Tight End
Juwan Johnson: Borderline START, TE2
Speaking of double-digit targets, Juwan Johnson was the Saints’ most productive pass catcher in Week 11, turning 11 targets into eight catches and 76 yards. It’s not a stat line you’d call and tell your Mom about, but if Johnson continues to be a key part of the Saints offense, he could emerge as this year’s breakout tight end. It’s been just one game, so there’s risk, but Johnson is a borderline starter with potential for much more.