Entrenched as No. 2 WR
Kirk was a standout at joint practices with the Panthers on Thursday and has locked up the No. 2 wide receiver role behind Nico Collins, Cole Thompson of USA Today reports.
Kirk has demonstrated chemistry with quarterback C.J. Stroud throughout training camp, and per Thompson, he's clearly been the Texans' most consistent wide receiver other than Collins. While it's possible Kirk that rookie wideouts Jayden Higgins (second round) and Jaylin Noel (third round) are able to build steam down the stretch of the regular season and provide increased target competition, at minimum Kirk is positioned to open Week 1 in a valuable starting role as one of Stroud's top reads, and likely while dominating slot reps. Kirk is entering his age-29 campaign and is playing for a new contract.
More San Francisco 49ers Fantasy Football News
Brock Purdy
Plans throwing sessions before camp
Purdy, who has been participating in this week's Tight End University, an event hosted by teammate George Kittle (Achilles), said that he plans to gather with other 49ers for throwing sessions over the next month prior to training camp, David Lombardi of the San Francisco Standard reports.
Brandon Aiyuk
Interested in joining Commanders
In a video posted to Instagram Wednesday, Aiyuk (knee) said that if the 49ers released him, he'd sign with the Commanders "tomorrow," ESPN.com reports.
George Kittle
Feels on track for Week 1
Kittle (Achilles) said Tuesday that he feels "definitely on track" for Week 1 though "nothing is 100 percent certain," David Lombardi of SFStandard.com reports.
George Kittle
Says he's ahead of schedule
Kittle (Achilles) said Wednesday that he's "doing great" and is "ahead of schedule" in his rehab, ESPN.com's Nick Wagoner reports.
Mike Evans
Winning over teammates and coaches
Evans is making a strong impression at voluntary OTAs and feels rejuvenated after an injury-plagued 2025, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.
Brandon Aiyuk
Issued arrest warrant for speeding
Aiyuk (knee) has been issued an arrest warrant on a misdemeanor charge of exhibition of speed by the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office, David Lombardi of SFStandard.com reports.
Christian McCaffrey
Downplays workload concerns
McCaffrey said after Thursday's OTAs that he's looking forward to sustaining another heavy workload in 2026, and that any reductions in touches should come in practice rather than games, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.
George Kittle
Still targeting Week 1
Kittle (Achilles) said Wednesday that he is still targeting the 49ers' regular-season opener against the Rams in Week 1 as his return date, Cameron DaSilva of USA Today reports.
Mac Jones
Gets raise for 2026
Jones agreed to terms Wednesday on a contract restructure with the 49ers that adds a $300,000 roster bonus for 2026, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Jordan James
Could be headed for No. 2 RB role
James "seems the most likely" of San Francisco's running backs behind Christian McCaffrey to earn the No. 2 role for the upcoming campaign, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.