NFL Player News

Although the Cowboys traded for Elam this offseason, this move was always expected. As noted by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, “the option would have paid him around $12.7 million,” which the Cowboys deemed too steep a price for a player who has failed to meet first-round expectations. Elam is now officially playing on a one-year prove-it deal.

Stafford didn’t get much time to enjoy Australia, and likely won’t leave this contest with fond memories. He completed just 4-of-11 passes in the first half and didn’t do much better in the final 30 minutes, and outside of a 41-yard connection with Puka Nacua, he just couldn’t get the ball downfield. He was also stuffed on a fourth-and-goal run at the goal line to cement the poor day. Credit the 49ers’ defense, but it’s fair to call this a disappointing season debut for the reigning MVP. Expect a rebound in Week 2 against the Giants in a Monday Night Football contest.

Purdy also added 29 yards on his five attempts. The veteran signal-caller did throw a terrible interception, but outside of that pick he played exceptionally well; even if most of his completions were for short yardage. All three passing scores came to different players, with his best throw being a perfectly placed touchdown to Deebo Samuel between two Rams’ defenders to cement the blowout. Purdy will look to keep it going in Week 2, and gets a friendly matchup against the Dolphins.

Allen has one catch for 13 yards, and likely is done for the day. The 25-year-old backup will need to clear protocol to play in Week 2 against the Giants.

Tonges finished without a target before exiting near the end of the second quarter. The 27-year-old will have a chance to return in Week 2 against the Giants, but his status for that game — and the weeks after — should be updated by early next week.

Tonges limped off the field after suffering his knee injury near the end of the first half. Assuming he doesn’t return, Luke Ferrell will get the snaps behind George Kittle and feature in two tight end sets.

Stribling was carted off during Friday’s contest, and finished without a catch in his NFL debut. He’ll get a little longer to potentially return for Week 2 against the Dolphins, but obviously his status for that contest is very much in doubt.