49ers vs. Titans: Several players don’t travel with the team

Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

This week, San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan informed reporters that several starters wouldn’t play in the preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans.

“[W]e don’t plan on many of the starters to play,” Shanahan said. “I know some guys will have to, but for the most part, starters shouldn’t be in much, if at all.”

According to Jennifer Lee Chan of NBC Sports Bay Area, several players didn’t even make the trip to Nashville for tonight’s game at Nissan Stadium. Some of the names are unsurprising. Tackle Trent Williams, who is holding out for a restructured contract, did not report to training camp and is obviously not with the team.

Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk reported to camp but has refused to practice while awaiting his own contract resolution or a trade. He did not travel with the 49ers either.

Additionally, running back Christian McCaffrey, linebacker Fred Warner, defensive end Nick Bosa, and wide receiver Ricky Pearsall were also absent from the trip.

McCaffrey is dealing with a calf strain and is not expected to play in the preseason. He recently reassured fans, stating, “If we had a game, I would play, but just trying to be smart right now. But still training, still getting a bunch of work in, so that come Week 1, we’re ready to roll.”

Warner is managing some minor foot irritation, which isn’t considered serious. Pearsall, meanwhile, re-aggravated a shoulder injury.

Bosa’s absence is a bit curious. He participated in the team’s last two practices, the latest being on Thursday.

Chan notes that quarterback Brock Purdy did travel with the team, though that was expected even if he doesn’t end up playing. Purdy is not dealing with any injury concerns.