The San Francisco 49ers will face off against the Las Vegas Raiders in a home game in Week 9. It's another opportunity for the club to extend its lead in the NFC West standings. However, a day before kickoff, the organization announced it's switching things up with the roster.
The 49ers made multiple roster moves ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Raiders, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN. Some changes were made with players on the IR, including wide receiver Christian Kirk, while one individual was elevated from the practice squad.
“49ers Saturday moves,” Wagoner posted on X. “Activated from IR: WR Demarcus Robinson. Placed on IR: WR Christian Kirk. NOT activated from IR: DB Nate Hobbs. Elevated from PS: WR KhaDarel Hodge.”
This is Kirk's second trip to the IR. The 29-year-old wideout is dealing with a meniscus injury in his right knee. He'll have to miss at least the next four weeks. There is a chance he'll need surgery on his right knee, but that is yet to be determined.
Injuries have been a key issue for the 49ers this season. Especially in the wide receiver room, as rookie De'Zhaun Stribling is currently on the IR, while Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel have dealt with injuries throughout the campaign but have so far avoided trips to the IR.
Either way, the team is still firmly in first place in the NFC West. Depending on how Week 9 plays out, the 49ers' lead could improve, increasing their chances of clinching the division for the playoffs.