The San Francisco 49ers and Minnesota Vikings released their inactives for Week 1, and there are no surprises. Linebacker Malcolm Smith was listed as doubtful for the game, and he will not suit up. Brock Coyle will start in his place next to Fred Warner. Elijah Lee will serve as the primary backup inside linebacker.
Rookie wide receiver Richie James is inactive this first week. One of the 49ers six wide receivers was going to be inactive, and it’s not surprising James drew the short straw. He’s got a lot to offer, but Kendrick Bourne gets the edge on this one. Fellow seventh round pick Jullian Taylor is also inactive. His best chance at playing time will be if there are injuries along the defensive line.
Here are the two teams’ full list of inactives.
49ers inactives: WR Richie James, LB Malcolm Smith, OL Erik Magnuson, OL Matt Tobin, DL Jullian Taylor, OL Shon Coleman
Vikings inactives: CB Mackensie Alexander, C Pat Elflein, RB Roc Thomas, QB Kyle Sloter, RB Mike Boone, OT Aviante Collins, DT Jalyn Holmes