Image Source: NFL.com
The niner game between the Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers carries an immediate twist: Deebo Samuel and Nick Bosa are both inactive for Monday night’s matchup at Levi’s Stadium. Their absences remove two of San Francisco’s most recognizable stars from a game featuring an unbeaten home team and a Washington squad looking to pull off a major upset.
Shocking Niner Game Inactives Revealed
Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The game is set to air on ABC, ESPN and NFL+. The 49ers enter the contest with a perfect 5-0-0 record, while the Commanders are listed at 1-3-1.
NFL.com listed six inactive players for Washington and seven for San Francisco. The Commanders’ inactive list includes quarterback Marcus Mariota, cornerbacks Fabian Moreau and Isaac Yiadom, defensive end T.J. Maguranyanga, guard Tanoa Togiai and defensive end Charles Omenihu.
San Francisco’s list features quarterback Kurtis Rourke, offensive lineman Enrique Cruz Jr., wide receiver Deebo Samuel, linebacker Garret Wallow, safety Marques Sigle, defensive linemen Nick Bosa and Naquan Jones.
San Francisco Loses Major Offensive and Defensive Weapons
Samuel’s absence is particularly significant for a 49ers offense built around versatility and playmaking. The wide receiver can influence a game as a pass catcher, runner and after-the-catch threat. Without him, San Francisco may need other skill-position players to handle a larger share of the offensive workload.
Bosa’s absence creates a comparable challenge on defense. The defensive lineman is one of the team’s most disruptive pass rushers, and his presence often affects how opposing offenses structure protection. Washington’s offensive line could have more flexibility without facing San Francisco’s star edge threat.
The source material does not provide injury explanations for the inactive players, so no specific reason was given for Samuel’s or Bosa’s absence. The official inactive designation, however, confirms that neither player is expected to participate in the Monday night game.
Commanders Face a Difficult Road Test
Washington already faces a difficult assignment against a 49ers team that has opened the season 5-0. The Commanders will be without Mariota as a reserve quarterback, along with multiple defensive backs and front-seven players. Those absences could affect Washington’s depth, especially during a demanding road game.
San Francisco also has several notable names unavailable, including Rourke and Jones. Even so, the 49ers enter the matchup with a strong record and home-field advantage. The team’s depth will now be tested on both sides of the ball, with coaches expected to adjust personnel packages before kickoff.
- Washington record: 1-3-1
- San Francisco record: 5-0-0
- Venue: Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
- Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: ABC, ESPN and NFL+
What the Inactives Mean for Monday Night
The biggest storyline is how quickly both teams can compensate for missing starters. For San Francisco, the offense must find ways to replace Samuel’s explosive versatility, while the defense will need additional pressure without Bosa. The Commanders, meanwhile, must manage their quarterback depth and avoid giving the 49ers short fields or extended possessions.
This niner game was already an important contrast in momentum. San Francisco is protecting an undefeated start, while Washington is attempting to stabilize its season. The inactive lists raise the stakes further and could force both coaching staffs to rely on younger players and rotational contributors.
Fans should watch the opening drives closely. Personnel changes often influence early play-calling, protection schemes and defensive matchups. If San Francisco establishes control without Samuel and Bosa, the 49ers can strengthen their position as one of the league’s early contenders. If Washington takes advantage of the missing stars, the Commanders could turn a challenging road assignment into a statement performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is inactive for the 49ers?
San Francisco’s inactives include Kurtis Rourke, Enrique Cruz Jr., Deebo Samuel, Garret Wallow, Marques Sigle, Nick Bosa and Naquan Jones.
Who is inactive for Washington?
The Commanders’ inactive players are Marcus Mariota, Fabian Moreau, Isaac Yiadom, T.J. Maguranyanga, Tanoa Togiai and Charles Omenihu.
When does the game begin?
Washington and San Francisco are scheduled to kick off at 8:15 p.m. ET on Monday night.
Where is the game being played?
The matchup will take place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the home of the San Francisco 49ers.
