Overview
- The 49ers released tight end Bayden Willis after arriving in Melbourne following a 16‑hour flight and, after he cleared waivers, re-signed him to their practice squad while promoting veteran long snapper Jon Weeks to the 53‑man roster.
- San Francisco made the move to ensure it had a specialist on the active roster for the Melbourne Cricket Ground game, a timing-driven decision caused by roster cut deadlines and the NFL’s 24‑hour waiver process.
- The Los Angeles Rams chose a deliberately late departure to Australia to preserve player routines and limit jet lag, a plan defended by coach Sean McVay but criticized by journalists who say it neglects local fan engagement.
- League scheduling was also reshaped by the Melbourne game, with the season opener moved to Wednesday to avoid overlap and to comply with U.S. broadcast rules such as the Sports Broadcast Act that restrict game windows.
- Injury updates point to stronger lineups for the opener: defensive coordinator Raheem Morris confirmed Nick Bosa will play and offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak said George Kittle looks likely to be available, a factor that influenced the 49ers’ roster choices and could affect the contest and recovery plans after the trip.