A different backfield mix for Washington
McNichols returns as Jacory Croskey-Merritt goes on injured reserve with a groin injury. Washington also placed outside linebacker Javontae Jean-Baptiste on IR, released linebacker Austin Keys and elevated outside linebacker T.J. Maguranyanga from the practice squad.
Those moves change the group available to Dan Quinn. They do not settle the challenge of finishing a game against an opponent playing as well as San Francisco.
Jayden Daniels scored twice on long runs against the Giants, as Yahoo Sports' Frank Schwab noted in his Monday preview. Washington still failed to produce a winning score on its final overtime possession. Its only win so far came against Seattle, so the Commanders have already shown they can beat an NFC West opponent. Monday asks them to repeat that on the road.
San Francisco has to adjust, too
Christian Kirk was downgraded to out Monday. He joins Deebo Samuel Sr., who had already been ruled out with a hamstring injury. The 49ers elevated receiver Malik Turner and linebacker Jalen Graham from their practice squad.
Mike Evans remained questionable with rib and Achilles injuries on the final practice report. Monday's roster announcement did not settle whether he would play. That leaves an important receiving decision for San Francisco before kickoff.
Purdy's first five games produced 13 touchdown passes, according to Yahoo's preview, and the 49ers reached 5-0 with a 32-29 win over Seattle. Samuel's absence and Kirk's delayed return require the quarterback to work with a narrower receiving group.
The ESPN preview examines the matchup and the decisions facing both teams.
